Winter 2025 FCIAAO Newsletter

Board

MEMBER spot l ight

Tell us about your education & designation journey? Like most of us, I started with the classes necessary to earn the Certified Florida Evaluator (CFE) designation. From there, I earned the Assessment Administration Specialist (AAS) and am currently studying for the master exam for the Mass Appraisal Specialist (MAS) designation. I am also pursuing the Certified Assessment Evaluator (CAE) and hope to have that by next year. Other than a brief hiatus for budgetary reasons, I have taken classes continuously since 2007. The bulk of my courses were pre-COVID, and almost all of them were in-person only so it took a while to accumulate the hours needed. However, these days, finding courses has become more convenient since there are a number of online offerings that will hopefully make the pursuit of a Designation a little quicker. explore new technologies and evolve our modeling and analysis techniques. was welcomed and made to feel like I was a part of the community. And eight years later, they still let me in the door. I also appreciate the freedom I’ve been given to

County: Osceola County Name : Lou Frey III, AAS, CFE What do you do for the PA? Generally speaking, I oversee the functions of the Commercial Real Property Department to maximize productivity and quality of work while meeting all of our Statutory requirements and deadlines for the Annual Tax Roll. More specifically, I plan, design, and supervise the work of the appraisers and support staff who are engaged in the valuation of real property. However, the most crucial aspect of my job is to pass on my knowledge and experiences and ensure our appraisers have the tools and training to help them achieve their goals. How long have you been employed by the PA? I have been with the Osceola County Property Appraisers Office for the last eight years but started in 2006 at the Orange County PA’s office. My Real Estate Appraisal career began as a commercial fee appraiser at an Orlando Firm in 1992. What do you like most about your job? The people! From the moment I arrived here, I

LOU FREY, AAS, CFE DIRECTOR, COMMERCIAL VALAUTION

Where was your best vacation ever? At the beach. When my children were young, we spent every spring break at the beach. We’d go fishing, sailing, bodysurfing, or spend hours goofing off around the pool, making me throw them around. When I think back, that was the best, and I look forward to when I can share that with grandchildren. But, until then, I prefer to be offshore on a boat, as long as no hurricanes are brewing. What are your hobbies and interests outside your job? I enjoy pickleball and play regularly a couple of times a week. To relax, I like to read or go fishing, and when the fish aren’t biting, I do both at the same time. What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I love Bees. A friend and I are beginning our apiary venture known as “Bee to the Eye Honey” with a single hive. A side note… always Zip up the protective suit at least 40 feet away! (cont’d next page)

13

STAYING APPRAISED

WINTER 2025