Howard Charles Johnson, J.D., MBA, CVA, FRICS
Certified General Appraiser | University Professor | Business & Legal Consultant Owner, Rocky Mountain Appraisal, LLC | Rocky Mountain Ranches, LLC | Goodwater Ranch, LLC
Biographical Overview
Howard Charles Johnson, known by his friends and colleagues as “Chuck,” is a nationally respected real estate and business valuation expert, legal consultant, and university professor whose Distinguished career spans more than 35 years across the Western and Pacific United States.
Renowned for his deep technical expertise, principled leadership, and commitment to education and community, Johnson has built an enduring legacy as a multi-state appraiser, mentor, legal expert, and entrepreneur.
He is the founder and principal of Rocky Mountain Appraisal, LLC, a multi-state real estate appraisal and consulting firm originally established in Utah in 1989 and now based in Arizona. The firm continues to provide professional valuation services throughout the Western United States, including Arizona, Utah, California, Montana, New Mexico, and Hawaii.
Johnson specializes in complex real estate valuation, including agricultural operations, ranches, mining properties, conservation lands, and business interests. He is also known for his role as a legal valuation expert and his service as an appointed hearing officer for property tax appeals across multiple Arizona counties.
Education
– Juris Doctor (J.D.), City University School of Law, Los Angeles, California
– Master of Business Administration (MBA), Benedictine University, Lisle, Illinois
– Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Western Illinois University, Macomb, Illinois
– Associate of Science (A.S.) in Police Science, Weber State University, Ogden, Utah
Professional Designations & Credentials
– Certified General Real Estate Appraiser (Licensed in AZ, CA, NM; prior licenses in UT, ID, HI, MT)
– Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA)
– Fellow (FRICS), Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, United Kingdom
– Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser (CMEA), NEBB Institute
– Senior Appraiser, American Society of Agricultural Appraisers
– USPAP Instructor Certification, Appraisal Foundation AQB Cert. #10463
Professional Experience
Chuck Johnson holds the Distinguished Business Valuation Certificate and is a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) through NACVA. His work spans partnership disputes, estate and gift tax planning, charitable contributions, financial reporting, and complex ownership structures.
He continues to lead Rocky Mountain Appraisal, LLC, providing expert valuation services in Arizona. Utah, California, New Mexico, Montana, and Hawaii. His designation as a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) reflects international recognition. He also serves as an appointed hearing officer for property tax appeals in numerous Arizona counties, ensuring compliance, fairness, and objectivity.
Academic & International Teaching Contributions
Professor Johnson has taught over 14 MBA courses abroad in Hanoi, Vietnam, and China for Benedictine University. His areas of instruction include business law, international business, ethics, and valuation.
Ranching and Agricultural Leadership
Chuck and Susan Johnson jointly own and operate Rocky Mountain Ranches, LLC and Goodwater Ranch, LLC in Northern Arizona, overseeing cattle operations, grazing rights, and land stewardship. They find joy and meaning in their shared commitment to agriculture and time spent outdoors.
Personal Life
A lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Chuck is the proud father of eight children and 18 grandchildren. Chuck and Susan split time between Queen Creek and Holbrook, Arizona, where they continue ranching and enjoying the Western way of life.
Legacy & Values
Howard Charles Johnson’s life is grounded in faith, family, and service. He continues to influence students, professionals, and communities through teaching, mentoring, and the stewardship of land and knowledge.