The term "appraiser" is not legally protected in Germany, meaning that in theory anyone can use it regardless of their actual qualification.
"Valuer" is generally used in connection with a formal qualification, for example as a publicly appointed and sworn expert or as a certified valuer in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024.
Consumers are therefore advised to ask specifically about the concrete qualification rather than relying solely on the professional title used.
Designations such as "building expert" or "real estate expert" are also not legally protected and, on their own, say nothing about actual professional qualification.
Looking at concrete evidence such as the certificate of appointment, certification certificate, or membership in a public-law chamber provides significantly more clarity here than the professional title alone.
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