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About Us

our story & mission

Our Story

Banks Valuation is a real estate appraisal firm built on a legacy of excellence, combining decades of experience to provide accurate and reliable property valuations. With roots in teams dedicated to delivering trusted appraisal services, we’ve expanded our reach to serve clients nationwide while maintaining the precision and personal touch that set us apart.

Our firm represents the best of what our teams have always stood for: expertise, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to helping homeowners, lenders, and businesses make confident real estate decisions. By leveraging advanced technology and deep industry knowledge, we provide appraisals that empower our clients and uphold the highest industry standards.

Our Mission

At Banks Valuation, we are committed to delivering the highest standards in real estate valuation. Our mission is to provide trusted expertise, innovative solutions, and unparalleled service to homeowners, lenders, and businesses nationwide. We aim to combine precision and reliability with local expertise, ensuring every appraisal meets the unique needs of our clients.
Our Team

Expert Leadership, Backed by Exceptional Talent

The leadership team at Banks Valuation combines years of expertise to guide the company’s growth and ensure the highest standards of service. Alongside a talented team of appraisers and administrative professionals, they uphold the values of precision, professionalism, and innovation that define Banks Valuation.
michael j banks

Michael J. Banks

Chief Executive Officer
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nicholas conteduca

Nicholas Conteduca

Chief Strategy Officer
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carmen olmetti

Carmen Olmetti

Chief Marketing & Financial Officer
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hugo garofalo

Hugo Garofalo

Chief Growth Officer
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michael bolgar

Michael Bolgar

Chief Technology Officer
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amanda gamble

Amanda Gamble

Appraiser Relations Manager
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rachel kolev

Rachel Kolev

Operations Manager
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edward kimball

Edward Kimball

Valuations Manager
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Frequently Asked Questions

About Banks Valuation

What is Banks Valuation?

Banks Valuation is a professional real estate appraisal firm specializing in residential and commercial property valuations. Our appraisers provide accurate, well-supported reports based on market data, property analysis, and industry standards.

How is Banks Valuation different from an AMC?

Banks Valuation is an appraisal firm, not an Appraisal Management Company (AMC). All valuations are completed by our team of licensed appraisers, ensuring consistency, expertise, and direct oversight throughout the process.

Where does Banks Valuation operate?

We currently provide appraisal services in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Nevada, Tennessee, and Wisconsin and are actively expanding into additional markets.

Why Would You Need an Appraisal?

Appraisals are used for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Homeowners – Pre-listing valuations, estate planning, divorce settlements, private sales.
  • Lenders & Financial Institutions – Mortgage financing, refinancing, collateral assessment.
  • Attorneys & Legal Professionals – Litigation, tax disputes, probate, bankruptcy cases.
  • Investors & Developers – Property acquisition, feasibility studies, portfolio valuation.
  • Real Estate Brokerages – Independent property valuations for transactions and pricing strategies.

What Types of Properties Does Banks Valuation Appraise?

Our appraisers provide valuations for:

  • Single-Family Homes
  • Condos & Townhomes
  • 2-4 Unit Residential Properties
  • Multi-Family (5+ Units)
  • Commercial Properties (Retail, Office, Industrial, Mixed-Use)
  • Vacant Land

Appraisal Process & Services

How long does an appraisal take?

Turnaround times vary by service type:

  • HomeVault Express: 1-3 business days (remote evaluation, no site visit).
  • HomeVault Classic: 3-5 business days (full inspection).
  • HomeVault Premium: 1-3 business days (expedited full-service appraisal).

Does Banks Valuation use Automated Valuation Models (AVMs)?

All valuations are conducted by licensed appraisers. While we use market data and analytics to enhance accuracy, every appraisal is based on a professional’s analysis, not an automated estimate.

How does Banks Valuation ensure quality and accuracy?

Our appraisers follow Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and conduct in-depth market research, property inspections, and comparable sales analysis to provide well-supported valuations.

Pricing & Payment

How much does an appraisal cost?

Pricing is available through HomeVault, where clients can choose the appraisal type that fits their needs.

Do you accept credit card payments?

Yes, we accept major credit cards and online payments. Payment is required upfront to begin the appraisal process.

Are appraisal fees refundable?

Refunds are dependent on the stage of the appraisal process. If the assignment has already started, the fee may be non-refundable. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Company Operations & Hiring

Is Banks Valuation hiring appraisers or support staff?

Yes, we are always looking for experienced appraisers and talented administrative professionals. Check our Careers page for open positions.

Does Banks Valuation partner with lenders, real estate brokerages, or law firms?

Yes, we work directly with lenders, attorneys, and real estate professionals to provide independent, high-quality valuations. If you're interested in partnering with us, reach out to discuss how we can collaborate.

Do you offer educational speaking engagements or seminars?

Yes, we provide educational sessions for lenders, real estate brokerages, and industry professionals. We can come to your office for private training, or you can attend one of our speaking events at conferences and industry gatherings. If you're interested in scheduling a session, contact us for more details.

Support & Contact Information

How can I get in touch with Banks Valuation?

If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us, and our team will be happy to assist.

Experience the difference of HomeVault by Banks Valuation

Trusted, human-driven appraisals tailored to your needs and delivered on your schedule.

Michael J. Banks

Chief Executive Officer

michael j banks

Michael J. Banks is the CEO of Banks Valuation, overseeing the company’s strategic growth and daily operations. With a background in communications and business studies at Northern Illinois University, he has built a career developing appraisal processes that improve efficiency, accuracy, and compliance while scaling business operations.

Throughout his career, Michael has led teams through industry shifts, implemented systems to streamline workflows, and improved turnaround times without compromising quality. He has developed operational structures that support growth while maintaining high standards in valuation accuracy and reliability. His ability to adapt to market demands and refine processes has positioned Banks Valuation for long-term success.

As the company continues to expand, Michael remains focused on strengthening its foundation, developing its team, and ensuring that Banks Valuation delivers consistent, well-supported appraisals in an evolving real estate landscape.

Nicholas Conteduca

Chief Strategy Officer

nicholas conteduca

Nicholas Conteduca is a seasoned business leader, innovator, and Certified Appraiser with over 20 years of experience in real estate and PropTech. As Chief Strategy Officer at Banks Valuation, he focuses on long-term growth strategies, operational efficiencies, and market positioning to ensure the firm remains at the forefront of the industry.

Nick has played a pivotal role in scaling some of the country’s largest appraisal firms, leveraging his valuation expertise to refine business models and streamline workflows. His deep understanding of industry challenges allows him to implement forward-thinking strategies that drive sustainable expansion while maintaining the highest standards of service.

A recognized leader in appraisal innovation, Nick was instrumental in developing cutting-edge valuation tools that integrate AI, LiDAR, and property data analytics. These advancements have revolutionized the appraisal process, improving accuracy, reducing turnaround times, and enhancing the experience for appraisers, lenders, and real estate professionals. As CSO, he ensures that technology and business strategy align to create scalable, efficient operations without compromising quality.

With a track record of driving business transformation, Nick’s expertise ensures Banks Valuation continues to evolve, adapt, and lead in an increasingly complex and competitive market.

Carmen Olmetti

Chief Marketing & Financial Officer

carmen olmetti

Carmen Olmetti leads the financial and marketing strategy at Banks Valuation, ensuring the company’s growth is both scalable and sustainable. As Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Financial Officer, he oversees brand development, client engagement, and financial planning, aligning these efforts to strengthen Banks Valuation’s market presence.

Before joining Banks Valuation, Carmen held leadership roles at LinkedIn and SAP, where he focused on sales compensation strategy and business growth. As Global Director of Compensation Strategy and Design at LinkedIn, he developed incentive programs to drive performance across a global salesforce. Prior to that, as Vice President of Sales Compensation Strategy at SAP, he worked on structuring compensation plans that supported long-term revenue goals.

In addition to his corporate leadership experience, Carmen spent a decade as a consultant advising companies such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Nextdoor, and Haribo. His expertise spans digital marketing, brand positioning, and financial structuring—key areas that now shape Banks Valuation’s long-term strategy.

Carmen holds master’s degrees in Integrated Marketing & Communications from Northwestern University, International Relations from Harvard University, an MBA from Indiana University, and Accounting from the University of Illinois. He also earned an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Arizona State University.

At Banks Valuation, Carmen applies his experience in corporate strategy, finance, and marketing to help build a strong foundation for sustainable growth, ensuring financial discipline and strategic positioning go hand in hand.

Hugo Garofalo

Chief Growth Officer

hugo garofalo

Hugo Garofalo is an experienced real estate valuation executive with over 30 years of expertise in business development, compliance, and operational leadership. As Chief Growth Officer at Banks Valuation, he focuses on expanding the firm’s market presence, strengthening client partnerships, and identifying new opportunities for sustainable growth.

His career includes leading major appraisal firms, where he played a key role in optimizing operations, refining quality control processes, and driving significant revenue expansion. As the former CEO of Equity Solutions USA and EVP at Acclaimed Management Group, Hugo developed scalable appraisal networks and implemented compliance frameworks that improved efficiency and service reliability.

Hugo has been at the forefront of industry advancements, developing appraisal scoring systems and compliance protocols that have reduced revision rates and enhanced service consistency. His ability to implement innovative solutions while maintaining regulatory integrity has made a lasting impact on the valuation industry.

With a deep understanding of real estate valuation and a strong business acumen, Hugo is widely respected for his expertise in both strategy and operations. Fluent in Italian and Spanish, he brings a global perspective to the firm, and his academic background from Wayne State University complements his extensive hands-on experience in the field. His leadership is instrumental in establishing Banks Valuation as a growing force in the appraisal industry.

Michael Bolgar

Chief Technology Officer

michael bolgar

Michael Bolgar serves as the Chief Technology Officer at Banks Valuation, bringing over 25 years of experience in software development, system architecture, and technology integration. He is a hands-on leader who believes that the best technology executives must remain deeply technical, applying an engineering mindset to drive innovation, efficiency, and scalability.

Before joining Banks Valuation, Michael spent nearly two decades at General Motors, where he held various leadership roles, culminating as Global IT Manager for Quality Applications. Throughout his career, he has been responsible for designing and implementing high-impact technology solutions that enhance operational performance, improve system reliability, and align with business objectives. His expertise spans enterprise software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics, allowing him to create infrastructure that supports growth while maintaining security and compliance.

At Banks Valuation, Michael is responsible for overseeing the company’s technology strategy, platform development, and system integration, ensuring that innovative digital solutions enhance the efficiency and accuracy of appraisal operations. He plays a key role in streamlining internal processes, optimizing data-driven decision-making, and developing scalable technology that meets the evolving needs of the real estate valuation industry.

Passionate about solving complex technical challenges, Michael continues to push the boundaries of software and IT solutions, ensuring that technology remains a strategic asset for Banks Valuation. His ability to bridge technical innovation with real-world application positions the company at the forefront of modern appraisal technology.

Amanda Gamble

Appraiser Relations Manager

amanda gamble

Amanda Gamble is an experienced leader in appraiser relations and operational management, specializing in building strong networks, improving efficiency, and supporting business expansion in the real estate valuation industry. As Appraiser Relations Manager at Banks Valuation, she plays a key role in maintaining and growing the firm’s appraiser panel, ensuring seamless collaboration between appraisers and clients, and optimizing processes to enhance service quality.

With a background in business management, Amanda has successfully helped scale appraisal operations into new markets by developing strategic partnerships and streamlining communication channels. Her ability to balance relationship management with operational oversight has contributed to the company’s rapid growth and reputation for reliability.

Beyond her professional expertise, Amanda is an active participant in industry networking and continuously seeks ways to improve the appraisal process through innovation and efficiency. Outside of work, she enjoys riding motorcycles and engaging with professional communities to foster connections that drive long-term success in the industry.

Rachel Kolev

Operations Manager

rachel kolev

Rachel Kolev is a process-driven professional specializing in operational strategy, workflow optimization, and client relations. As the Operations Manager at Banks Valuation, she focuses on improving internal processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring seamless coordination across teams to support the company’s growth.

With over 20 years of experience in customer service and business operations, Rachel has held leadership roles in both national and international organizations, including the National Association of Hairstyling and Cosmetology (NAHA) and Coiffure EU. Her ability to adapt to evolving industries and implement structured processes has made her an asset in refining and scaling appraisal operations.

Since joining Banks Valuation, Rachel has played a key role in developing and optimizing appraisal workflows while maintaining compliance and quality standards. Her expertise in strategic planning and team coordination ensures that internal operations run smoothly, supporting both appraisers and clients.

Rachel is passionate about continuous improvement and operational excellence. Outside of work, she remains engaged in the beauty industry through Salon Fluxx, reflecting her dedication to both professional and personal growth.

Edward Kimball

Valuations Manager

edward kimball

Edward Kimball plays a critical leadership role at Banks Valuation, overseeing appraisal workflows, maintaining quality control, and ensuring the team operates efficiently. As Valuations Manager, he provides guidance on valuation methodology, technology integration, and process improvements that enhance both internal operations and client experience.

With a strong understanding of appraisal processes and industry technology, Edward works closely with appraisers to refine workflows, troubleshoot challenges, and implement best practices that improve accuracy and efficiency. He is also instrumental in maintaining and strengthening client relationships, ensuring they receive timely, well-supported valuations and responsive service throughout the appraisal process.

Edward’s ability to bridge operational efficiency with client needs makes him an essential part of Banks Valuation’s success. His leadership helps create a structured, collaborative environment where appraisers can perform at their best while ensuring the firm consistently delivers high-quality, reliable valuations.