Anybody know how to get a job as an entry-level Commercial Real Estate Appraiser ?

Anybody know how to get a job as an entry-level Commercial Real Estate Appraiser (trainee) ?

I have been working in the newspaper business for the past 8 years, on the Circulation side of things. It's not finance related or close to real estate. I got laid off just recently.

I did take some real estate appraisal classes a few years ago: USPAP, intro to real estate appraial, Forms and Procedures. I didn't get a job doing this then, because I got called back to work at the newspaper, following another round of layoffs.

I also took a commercial real estate appraisal class when I was in college. We actually had to appraise a small strip mall, as a class project. I have a bachelors degree in marketing.

What criteria would a company use, in selecting a new commercial R.E. appraisal trainee ? What would be considered fair pay ? I'm not expecting to make a bunch of money the first couple of years. I'm looking at it as an investment in a long term career. Who knows what the U.S. economy is going to look like in another 35 years. It seems like this sort of career, would even allow someone to work a few days a week, on a part-time basis, while semi-retired. I wouldn't mind being in my 70's someday, working 3 days a week, to supplement my income.

I'm willing to relocate to another state. I don't have any family or debts holding me to Toledo.

I also went to auction school 2 summers ago. I think I might like to conduct auctions in my spare time and maybe get a brokers sales license, after several years of experience doing appraisals. Perhaps I could sell several income producing properties a year.

I'd really appreciate any advice or commentary someone might have ?

--Thanks Walt in Ohio