Appraisal Institute

A global membership association of professional real estate appraisers, the Appraisal Institute’s mission is to support and advance its members as the choice for real estate solutions as well as uphold professional credentials, standards of professional practice and ethics consistent with the public good.

Appraisal Institute designations, awarded after completing a rigorous program, are an assurance of working with a top professional in the field of valuation. Appraisers & Planners President Ruth A. Agnese holds the MAI designation; Chairman James L. Levy holds both the MAI and SRA designations.

Ruth A. Agnese served as President of the Metropolitan New York Chapter, as a National Director, Vice Chair, for Region IV encompassing much of New England and New York State and in numerous other officer and board positions.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

Members of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the pre-eminent organization of its kind in the world, offer advice on a diverse range of land, property, construction and related environmental issues. RICS membership is only awarded to individuals who meet and maintain the most rigorous standards of technical knowledge, experience and expertise to the public advantage. Both principals of Appraisers & Planners are designated members of RICS.

REBNY

As the leading trade association in New York, REBNY members, such as Appraisers & Planners’ principals, are the City’s most talented, energetic and influential real estate professionals. REBNY promotes public and industry policies and frequently speaks before government bodies to, among other things, expand New York’s economy, encourage the development and renovation of commercial and residential real property, enhance the city’s appeal to investors and residents and facilitate property management.

American Arbitration Association

The American Arbitration Association, with its long history and experience in the field of alternative dispute resolution, provides services to individuals and organizations who wish to resolve conflicts out of court. The AAA assists in appointing mediators and arbitrators, setting hearings, and providing users with information on dispute resolution options, including settlement through mediation.

Both of Appraisers & Planners principals are commercial panel members of and arbitrators for the AAA.

Association of Real Estate Women

One of New York City’s leading organizations, the Association of Real Estate Women advances educational and networking opportunities for women real estate professionals. An organization of diverse membership, which includes both women and men, AREW represents the full spectrum of the real estate industry.

A prominent member of AREW, Ruth A. Agnese served as 1999-2000 president, co-chair for AREW’s 25th Anniversary Gala, as a board member for the 30th Anniversary Gala and is a current member of the Presidents’ Council. In acknowledgment of her many outstanding contributions, she was the recipient of the association’s prestigious Founders’ Award.

Mortgage Bankers Association of New York, Inc.

This nationally recognized, New York state-wide organization represents the commercial and multifamily real estate financial industry.

Since 1948, the MBAofNY has offered its members opportunities for networking and education and represented its members' interests in the political and business arenas. A broad spectrum of firms and individuals choose membership in the MBA including mortgage bankers and brokers, commercial and investment banks and other institutional lenders, title companies, attorneys, accountants, appraisers and environmental services firms.

In 2011, Ruth A. Agnese was named to the board of directors as programs chair.