This Privacy Policy explains how Valuation Professional (“we,” “our,” or “Company”) collects, uses, protects, and shares information gathered through our website (https://www.valuationprofessional.com), appraisal services, and other interactions, such as email, phone, or text messages. This policy applies to all personal information we collect, except where stated otherwise.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information you provide directly, information collected automatically, and information gathered during appraisal services.

1.1 Information You Provide

• Contact Details: Name, email address, phone number, and mailing address submitted via website forms, email, phone, or other direct contact.

• Appraisal-Related Information: Property details (e.g., address, ownership records), client communication records, and transaction data provided during appraisal services.

• SMS Consent: Phone numbers provided when opting in to receive SMS/text messages.

1.2 Information Collected Automatically

• Website Usage Data: IP addresses, browser type, device information, pages visited, session duration, and other analytics data collected via cookies and tools like Google Analytics.

• Cookies: Small data files stored on your device to improve website functionality, track usage, and store preferences.

1.3 Appraisal Service Information

• Property Data: Photographs (interior and exterior), measurements, layouts, specifications, and condition details of the subject property.

• Client Data: Information necessary to complete the appraisal, such as billing details or service agreements.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to provide and improve our services, fulfill legal obligations, and communicate with you.

2.1 Website Information

• Respond to inquiries and provide customer support.

• Improve website functionality and user experience.

• Send service-related communications (e.g., appointment confirmations).

• Send marketing communications, such as promotions or updates, with your explicit consent.

2.2 Appraisal Information

• Perform appraisal services in compliance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and California regulations.

• Fulfill regulatory, professional, or legal requirements.

• Conduct quality control, internal training, or audits.

2.3 SMS Communications

• Send consented SMS/text messages, such as appointment reminders, service updates, or promotional offers, to users who opt in.

• Manage opt-in and opt-out requests.

2.4 Analytics Data

• Analyze website traffic and user behavior to enhance our website and services.

• Monitor and improve the performance of our digital platforms.

3. Information Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for their own marketing purposes. We may share information in the following cases:

• With Clients: Appraisal reports and related data are shared with the client who ordered the appraisal (e.g., a lender or property owner directly engaging our services).

• With Service Providers: We may share information with authorized contractors or vendors (e.g., payment processors, SMS platforms) who assist in delivering our services, subject to confidentiality agreements.

• For Legal Purposes: We may disclose information to comply with legal obligations, respond to regulatory authorities, or protect our rights, property, or safety.

• Aggregated Data: We may share anonymized, aggregated data (e.g., website traffic statistics) with partners or advertisers, which cannot identify individuals.

4. Cookies and Tracking

4.1 Cookies
We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your website experience, store preferences, and analyze usage. For example, cookies help us identify repeat visitors and streamline navigation.

4.2 Google Analytics
We use Google Analytics to collect non-personally identifiable information, such as IP addresses, browser details, and page visit data. This helps us understand how users interact with our website and improve its functionality. Google Analytics may use cookies or other tracking technologies.

4.3 Managing Cookies
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings or opt out of Google Analytics tracking via tools provided by Google (e.g., the Google Analytics Opt-Out Browser Add-On). Note that disabling cookies may affect website functionality.

5. SMS Communications

5.1 Opt-In Consent
If you opt in to our SMS program, we collect your phone number to send text messages, such as appointment reminders, service updates, or promotional offers. Opt-in is voluntary and requires your explicit consent.

5.2 Opt-Out Process
You may opt out at any time by replying “STOP” to any SMS message or contacting us at solutions@valuationprofessional.com or (213) 301-0049. We will promptly unsubscribe you from further SMS communications.

5.3 Data Use and Sharing
Your phone number is used solely for sending consented SMS messages and is stored securely. We may share it with third-party SMS platforms to facilitate communications, but these providers are bound by confidentiality and compliance with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

5.4 Costs
Standard message and data rates may apply, as determined by your mobile carrier. We are not responsible for any charges incurred.

6. Data Storage and Security

6.1 Storage
We store personal information and appraisal data digitally on secure, encrypted platforms. Access is restricted to authorized employees who need it to perform their duties and are bound by confidentiality agreements.

6.2 Security Measures
We use industry-standard encryption (e.g., SSL for website data) and other safeguards to protect your information online and offline. However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6.3 Data Retention

• Appraisal Records: Retained for a minimum of five years, per USPAP requirements, or longer as required by California law.

• Personal Information: Retained only as long as necessary for the purposes for which it was collected or as required by law.

• Deletion Requests: Clients may request deletion of their data after the mandatory retention period, subject to legal obligations, by contacting us.

7. Your Rights and Choices

7.1 General Rights
You have the right to:

• Access: Request details about the personal information we hold about you.

• Correct: Update or correct inaccurate information.

• Delete: Request deletion of your data, subject to retention requirements.

• Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications or SMS messages.
  To exercise these rights, contact us at solutions@valuationprofessional.com or (213) 301-0049.

7.2 California Residents (CCPA Rights)
Under the CCPA, California residents have additional rights, including:

• Right to Know: Request disclosure of the categories and specific pieces of personal information we collect, use, or share.

• Right to Delete: Request deletion of your personal information, subject to exceptions (e.g., legal retention requirements).

• Right to Opt-Out of Sale: We do not sell personal information, so this right does not apply.

• Right to Non-Discrimination: We will not discriminate against you for exercising your CCPA rights.
  To submit a CCPA request, contact us at the details above. We will respond within 45 days, as required by law.

7.3 Managing Communications

• Email: Opt out of marketing emails by clicking the “unsubscribe” link in any email.

• SMS: Reply “STOP” to any text message or contact us directly.

• Cookies: Adjust browser settings or use opt-out tools for analytics tracking.

8. Children’s Privacy

Our website and services are not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we learn that we have collected such information, we will delete it promptly. Contact us if you believe we have inadvertently collected data from a child.

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party sites. We are not responsible for their content, privacy practices, or data handling. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

10. Policy Changes

We may update this Privacy Policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Material changes will be posted on our website or communicated via email to clients. Your continued use of our website or services after such changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

11. Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or to exercise your rights under this Privacy Policy, please contact us at:
Valuation Professional
611 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 900-1158
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 301-0049
Email: solutions@valuationprofessional.com