Our Story, Our Standards, Our Commitment!

Our practice began with Mary Yawn, a Texas A&M master’s graduate who became a Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser in 1993. She spent her early years in the profession working under long‑time community appraiser Joe Brewster, gaining hands‑on experience and learning the standards that would shape her career. After eight years of mentorship and growth, Mary was ready to build something of her own. In 2001, she established Appraisals by Yawn & Associates, dedicating herself to serving Brazos County with precision, integrity, and genuine care.

Mary was one of the first female appraisers in Brazos County, and she built her business through hard work, strong relationships, and a commitment to excellence. Over the years, she expanded her capabilities, hired staff, and became known for her meticulous attention to detail. Every report she produced reflected her belief that an appraisal should be both accurate and understandable. Clients often remembered her kindness, patience, and willingness to explain the process — qualities that defined her work and her presence in the community. She was a family‑first person who loved her profession and the people she served.

In 2020, Mary made the decision to transition the business from a sole proprietorship to an LLC to prepare for her future retirement and ensure the company could continue in capable hands. She wanted the practice she built to remain strong, protected, and prepared for the next generation. Even as she faced significant health challenges, including a double‑lung transplant in 2023 and the difficult rejection that followed, Mary continued working with unwavering dedication. She remained active in the business up to her passing in 2025, serving her clients and community with the same commitment, kindness, and professionalism she had shown since the day she began. Her strength, resilience, and love for her work left a lasting impact on Brazos County and on everyone who had the privilege of working with her. To honor her legacy, we’ve included a link to Mary’s obituary for those who wish to learn more about her life and impact.

In 2016, her son Colby Yawn joined the company as an associate, assisting with inspections, comparable photos, and other appraisal‑related tasks. Before entering the appraisal profession, Colby graduated from Sam Houston State University in 2012 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing, a foundation that strengthened his understanding of market behavior, consumer trends, and real‑world valuation principles. By 2019, he earned his appraisal license and began working directly on valuation development and report writing. Colby passed the Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser exam on his first attempt, continuing the family tradition of excellence.

Although Colby’s professional experience spans more than a decade, his connection to the industry goes back much further. He grew up in the world of appraisal — from visiting Kodak Film to have square‑format photos developed, to helping measure homes with pen‑and‑paper notes. Today, the tools have changed: iPads, laser measurement devices, and ultra‑wide photos allow entire rooms to be captured in a single shot. But the core principles Mary taught remain the same.

Today, that legacy continues through a modernized workflow that blends traditional appraisal principles with advanced measurement tools, sustainability training, and clear reporting designed for both homeowners and underwriters. We believe an appraisal should be understandable, defensible, and tailored to the unique characteristics of each property.

Appraisals by Yawn & Associates, LLC is a locally focused residential appraisal practice serving Bryan and College Station. Built on more than 25 years of family experience, the company is now led by Colby Yawn, a Certified Green Home Appraiser (CGHA), Residential Accredited Appraiser (RAA), and Member of the National Association of Appraisers (MNAA). Our mission is simple: deliver clear, accurate, and defensible valuations supported by modern tools, strong ethics, and deep knowledge of the Brazos County market.

Our commitment today reflects the same values Mary built this practice on: accuracy, honesty, and genuine care for the people of Brazos County. Whether you’re financing, planning, or preparing to sell, we’re here to provide clear, defensible valuations backed by decades of experience and modern appraisal standards.