They spend time with their kids and then complete their work later in the evening. Personal use of time allows my staff to go snow skiing, fishing, sailing, hunting, golfing or swimming part of the day and then jump into work and get the job done. I have never seen anyone work less because they were working remotely. A happy affiliate is going to be a more loyal appraiser and is going to be of greater benefit to an organization. I feel I have an edge on my competition in retaining my human resources.
Slow times exist for all, due either to seasonal changes or movements in interest rates.
During these times, my appraisers continue to generate income by providing me with valuable assistance on various projects, such as marketing campaigns, updating databases and working on accounts receivable, which had been the responsibly of the full time staff. Out sourced workers charge only for effective time spent, as opposed to a staff employee who gets paid regardless of how much work is completed. I now start preparing in advance for seasonal slow times or in response to external pressures, like when I see the Mortgage Bankers Association Loan Volume Application Index falling. Some appraisers enjoy the opportunity to contribute to special projects. They seem to like to switch hats occasionally.