re: Thoughts on Becoming a Commercial Real Estate Appraiser?

I have been exploring a career change and wanted to bump this thread.

Would the existing appraisers in here recommend getting into the industry (particularly on the commercial side)? I have read a few things that have speculated the industry could be heavily watered down with new software. Obviously the last 14 months or so have been booming for anything related to the housing market, but how do you see the industry in 10 years?

It seems that the education and apprenticeship/trainee requirements to be come certified are pretty extensive. Is there any realistic chance to be able to get the required hours in to become certified while working another job (weekends, nights, etc.)?

Just for some background: Almost 30, with an MBA. Dual income household with kids. I currently have a well-paying job with good benefits, but the work just leaves something to be desired. I have always found the real estate industry to be interesting and actually enjoy looking at comps/accessor website and getting to do work in the field. Also have good contacts with people in residential lending as well as commercial and residential developers.

If anyone would be willing to talk on a few specifics, it would be greatly appreciated! drunkencrawfishtd@gmail.com.