Find An Appraiser

Photo Credit: Flickr.com, McKaySavage

While there are some associations that will provide “certification” to appraisers, there is no professional body that oversees antique, collectible or personal property appraisers. (A professional body is one that has the ability to suspend a professional’s right to practice.) Similarly, while there are some organizations providing classes to appraisers, becoming versed in antique and collectible appraisals is not something that can be taught in school. Appraisers keep their knowledge current by working in the antiques and collectibles business and by participating with colleagues in ongoing learning opportunities and discussions.

Regardless of their training and backgrounds (which will be varied), you can easily determine the independence and ethics of an appraiser by asking the following 3 questions…

1. Are your fees a flat-rate or are they based on the value of the items being appraised?

If an appraiser’s charges  are based on a percentage of the value of your items, RUN! If such an appraiser is also a dealer, he will lean towards under-valuing your items hoping to buy them. If the appraiser knows you’re not thinking of selling, he will lean towards over-valuing your items so he can charge you more.  In either scenario, there is a conflict of interest and you are paying for an invalid appraisal. In order to be conflict free your appraiser should quote for either a  ‘per item rate’ or an ‘hourly rate’.

2. Can you buy some of these items if I decide to sell them?

Unless you hear, “no, No, NO!”, run, Run RUN!  An independent appraiser will not make an offer to purchase any item that they have appraised. Period. It might be convenient to be able to make an easy sale if you’re downsizing and want to turn your items into much-needed cash, but you’ll be getting an invalid appraisal, and a low price for your goods.  A caveat here: remember that a number of appraisers also run antique shops, and can offer to help you sell your goods on a consignment basis. In this case, your appraiser is working on your side to get the best price possible.  Your appraiser can also advise you on other sale options.

3. Do you need to come and inspect the goods, or can I just send you some photos?

An appraiser needs to inspect your antiques and personal property. There are so many factors that go into making an accurate appraisal that a photo is not sufficient (and neither is your verbal description over the phone!).  An appraiser might ask you to send preliminary photos in order to determine whether your item might require a more formal appraisal, but the goods must be physically inspected.