HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE ON-SITE INSPECTION

•   Decide which items you want to have appraised.
•   Make sure they are accessible.
•   Unpack items in drawers, boxes, trunks.
•   Put things of like kind together.
•   Arrange china and glass by patterns.
•   Gather receipts, certificates of authenticity, photographs, or earlier appraisals.

Taking these steps will streamline the appraisal process and ultimately save you money. 

A COMPETENT APPRAISAL REPORT HAS . . . 

•   A cover document explaining in detail what type of value or cost is being sought (“purpose”) and how the appraisal is to be used (“intended use”).
•   The description of the methodology and resources relied upon.
•   A definition and description of the market(s) selected.
•   A complete and accurate description of the property written in such a manner that it can be identified without photographs.
•   The date(s) and location(s) of inspection and the effective date of the report.
•   A current USPAP certification statement. Competent appraisers must take a USPAP update course every two years.
•   The appraiser’s qualifications and signature.

DO NOT ACCEPT AN APPRAISAL IF . . .  

•   It is handwritten or unsigned.
•   The fee is based on a contingency fee or on the value of the property.
•   The appropriate “purpose” and “intended use” are not stated.
•   The item is beyond the appraiser’s expertise.
•   The appraiser lacks training in appraisal methodology.
•   The appraiser is not willing and able to defend the appraisal in court.
•   The appraiser prepares the appraisal report in anticipation of buying items from you after the report is completed.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT US.

Your Name (required)


Your Email (required)


Subject


What are your appraisal needs?
Charitable DonationsInsuranceEstatesEquitable Distribution

Your Message