| Single Item Written Appraisal |
$250-$350 |
Formal documentation for insurance or estate purposes |
| Additional Items (Same Visit) |
$25-$100 each |
Depends on complexity and research required |
| Hourly Consultation |
$100-$300/hour |
For verbal opinions or initial assessments |
| In-Home Appraisal Service |
$500-$1,000+ |
For collections or items that cannot be transported |
| Appraisal Events (per item) |
$15-$50/item |
Quick valuations during antique shows or events |
</tbody>
</table>
Free or Low-Cost Options
While professional appraisals have their costs, some alternatives can provide preliminary guidance:
- Antique shows with appraisal booths: Often charge $5-20 per item for brief consultations
- Museum-sponsored appraisal days: Similar to the format of TV shows like Antiques Roadshow
- Auction house evaluations: Some offer free evaluations hoping you’ll consign items
- Antique dealer opinions: May offer free assessments, but beware of conflicts of interest
- Online appraisal platforms: Typically charge $10-30 per item for digital appraisals
The appraisal process follows a fairly standardized approach, whether conducted in your home, at an appraiser’s office, or at an appraisal event.
Initial Consultation
Before the formal appraisal begins:
- Discuss purpose: Clarify why you need the appraisal (insurance, sale, estate planning)
- Review items: Provide preliminary information about what you’re having appraised
- Establish scope: Determine whether you need verbal consultation or written documentation
- Agree on fees: Get a clear understanding of costs and payment methods
- Schedule the appraisal: Set a date, time, and location
The Appraisal Process
During the actual appraisal:
- Physical examination: The appraiser will carefully inspect each item
- Documentation: Photos will be taken from multiple angles
- Measurements: Precise dimensions will be recorded
- Markings and signatures: The appraiser will examine maker’s marks, signatures, or stamps
- Condition assessment: Damage, repairs, and overall condition will be noted
- Questions about provenance: You’ll be asked about the item’s history and documentation
- Initial observations: The appraiser may share preliminary thoughts
Research Phase
After examining your items, the appraiser will:
- Conduct comparable sales research: Examine similar items that have recently sold
- Consult reference materials: Use specialized resources and databases
- Verify authenticity: Research to confirm or question the item’s attribution
- Consider market factors: Assess current demand and market trends
- Draft the appraisal report: Compile findings into formal documentation
Final Delivery
The appraisal concludes with:
- Written report delivery: You’ll receive the formal appraisal document
- Review of findings: The appraiser will explain their conclusions
- Value discussion: Clear explanation of how values were determined
- Recommendations: Potential next steps based on the appraisal results
- Questions and clarifications: Opportunity to address any concerns
The Antique Appraisal Process
-
Initial Contact
Scheduling & Scope Definition
Contact the appraiser, discuss your needs, agree on fees, and schedule the appraisal appointment.
-
Physical Examination
Item Inspection
Appraiser examines items, takes photographs, measures dimensions, and assesses condition.
-
Research Phase
Market Analysis & Authentication
Appraiser researches comparable sales, verifies authenticity, and evaluates current market demand.
-
Report Creation
Documentation Preparation
Formal appraisal report is created with detailed descriptions, photographs, and valuations.
-
Delivery & Review
Final Consultation
Appraiser delivers the report, explains findings, and answers any questions about the valuation.
Appraisals serve various purposes, and the type you need will determine the approach, documentation, and sometimes even the appraiser you should select.
Purpose-Based Appraisals
Different purposes require specific approaches:
Insurance Appraisals
- Purpose: Document value for insurance coverage
- Valuation Standard: Replacement value (cost to replace with similar item)
- Detail Level: Highly detailed with extensive documentation
- Updates Required: Typically every 3-5 years as markets change
Estate Appraisals
- Purpose: Establish values for estate tax or division of assets
- Valuation Standard: Fair market value (likely sale price in appropriate market)
- Detail Level: Comprehensive with IRS-compliant methodology
- Legal Requirements: Must meet specific IRS guidelines and timing requirements
Donation Appraisals
- Purpose: Establish value for charitable donation tax deduction
- Valuation Standard: Fair market value
- Detail Level: Must meet IRS requirements, especially for items valued over $5,000
- Appraiser Requirements: IRS has specific qualifications for appraisers
Resale Appraisals
- Purpose: Determine potential selling price
- Valuation Standard: Market value or liquidation value
- Detail Level: Often less formal with market analysis
- Considerations: Different markets (auction, retail, wholesale) yield different values
Appraisals also vary by documentation level:
Verbal Consultations
- Quick assessments with verbal value ranges
- No formal documentation
- Lower cost but limited usefulness for official purposes
Written Appraisals
- Formal documents with detailed descriptions and values
- Photos and condition reports included
- Meets requirements for legal, tax, and insurance purposes
Identification and Authentication Services
- Focus on confirming what an item is rather than its value
- Typically includes written documentation of findings
- Often performed by specialists in narrow fields
Technology has expanded appraisal options beyond traditional in-person services. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right approach for your needs.
In-Person Appraisals
Traditional face-to-face appraisals offer several advantages:
Benefits:
- Thorough examination: Appraiser can handle items, check construction details
- Detection of repairs/alterations: Some condition issues only visible through physical inspection
- Complete assessment: Dimensions, weight, and other physical characteristics directly measured
- Authentication confidence: Better ability to verify authenticity and materials
- Immediate feedback: Direct conversation about findings and recommendations
Limitations:
- Scheduling constraints: Must coordinate convenient times for both parties
- Geographic limitations: May be difficult to find specialists in certain areas
- Higher costs: Typically more expensive than digital alternatives
- Travel requirements: Either you or the items must travel
Online Appraisal Services
Digital appraisal options continue to expand:
Benefits:
- Convenience: No need to transport items or schedule appointments
- Access to specialists: Can reach experts regardless of geographic location
- Lower cost: Generally more affordable than in-person services
- Quick turnaround: Many digital services provide faster results
- Preliminary screening: Helps determine if items warrant more formal appraisal
Limitations:
- Reliance on photos: Quality and completeness of your photos impact accuracy
- Limited examination: Appraiser cannot physically inspect construction or condition
- Authentication challenges: Harder to detect fakes or alterations
- Less formal documentation: May not meet requirements for insurance or tax purposes
Choosing Between Options
Consider these factors when deciding:
- Value of items: Higher-value items generally warrant in-person examination
- Purpose of appraisal: Insurance and tax purposes typically require formal in-person appraisals
- Item fragility: Delicate or large items may be better assessed on-site
- Authentication concerns: If provenance or authenticity is critical, choose in-person
- Budget constraints: Online options provide more affordable preliminary assessments
- Urgency: Digital services often provide faster turnaround
While local independent appraisers often provide excellent service, several established companies and services have built strong reputations in the antique appraisal industry.
National Appraisal Companies
These organizations operate across multiple regions:
Regional Standouts
Some well-reviewed regional providers include:
Celebrity Appraisers
Some appraisers have gained recognition through media appearances:
- Dr. Lori Verderame: Offers in-home appraisals at $999 for one hour when in your area
- Leigh Keno: Known from Antiques Roadshow, offers high-end appraisal services
- Leslie Hindman: Founded one of the nation’s leading auction houses with appraisal services
Auction House Appraisal Services
Major auction houses typically offer appraisal services:
Proper preparation ensures you’ll get the most accurate and comprehensive appraisal possible while maximizing the appraiser’s time.
Gathering Documentation
Collect any available information about your items:
- Receipts or purchase information: Original purchase date and price
- Provenance documents: Letters, certificates, or other historical documentation
- Previous appraisals: Any earlier valuations, even if outdated
- Family history: Written or recorded stories about the items
- Repair records: Documentation of any restoration or repair work
- Photos: Historical photographs showing the item in context or original condition
Organizing Your Items
Prepare your items for efficient examination:
- Clean gently: Remove dust with appropriate methods (no harsh cleaning)
- Group by category: Arrange similar items together
- Create an inventory list: Preliminary list of items to be appraised
- Ensure accessibility: Make sure items can be easily viewed from all angles
- Prepare display area: Clean, well-lit space with room to examine items
- Gather components: Ensure all parts and pieces are available
Questions to Prepare
Be ready to discuss:
- Origin story: How and when you acquired the item
- Known history: Any information about previous owners
- Family connections: Relationship to any notable individuals
- Geographic significance: Regions or locations associated with the item
- Condition changes: Any damage, repairs, or alterations since acquisition
- Your appraisal goals: Clear understanding of why you want the appraisal
Logistical Considerations
Plan the practical aspects:
- Appointment timing: Schedule enough time without rushing
- Space requirements: Ensure adequate room for examination
- Lighting needs: Good natural light or bright artificial lighting
- Work surface: Clean, stable table or counter for examination
- Photo area: Clear space for documentation photographs
- Payment method: Confirm acceptable payment forms
Appraisal Preparation Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare for your appointment
Once you’ve received your appraisal, several important steps will help you maximize its value and ensure proper use of the information.
Reviewing the Appraisal Report
Carefully examine the appraisal document:
- Verify accuracy: Check that all items are correctly identified and described
- Understand methodologies: Review how values were determined
- Note limitations: Be clear about any stated limitations or assumptions
- Check credentials: Confirm the appraiser’s qualifications are listed
- Verify compliance: Ensure the report meets requirements for your intended purpose
- Check expiration: Note any stated validity period for the valuation
Documentation and Storage
Properly preserve your appraisal document:
- Digital backup: Scan or photograph the complete appraisal
- Multiple copies: Store copies in different locations
- Secure storage: Keep original in fireproof safe or safety deposit box
- Insurance company copy: Provide copy to insurance company if for coverage
- Attorney copy: Share with estate attorney if for estate planning
- Organization system: Create filing system for appraisals and related documents
Acting on Appraisal Results
Depending on your goals, next steps might include:
- Insurance adjustments: Update coverage based on appraised values
- Estate planning: Incorporate values into will or trust documents
- Sale decisions: Determine whether to sell based on market value
- Tax planning: Work with accountant on donation or estate tax implications
- Collection adjustments: Refocus collecting priorities based on value insights
- Conservation actions: Address preservation needs identified during appraisal
- Authentication follow-up: Pursue additional authentication if recommended
Scheduling Future Updates
Appraisals have limited validity periods:
- Calendar reminder: Set reminder for reappraisal based on appraiser’s recommendation
- Market monitoring: Follow auction results for similar items
- Value tracking: Note significant market changes in your category
- Condition updates: Document any changes in condition
- Insurance requirements: Note insurance company’s reappraisal requirements
Building Appraiser Relationships
Cultivate an ongoing relationship with your appraiser:
- Provide feedback: Share how the appraisal met your needs
- Ask questions: Follow up on any points requiring clarification
- Future acquisitions: Consider consulting before major purchases
- Stay connected: Join mailing list or follow on social media for market updates
- Referrals: Recommend to others if service was satisfactory
Common Questions About Antique Appraisers
How much does it cost to get an appraisal on antiques?
Antique appraisal costs vary depending on several factors, including the appraiser's expertise and reputation, your location, and the type of appraisal needed. According to industry standards:
- Formal appraisals for a single item typically start at $250-$350
- Additional items generally add $25-$100 per item, depending on complexity
- Hourly rates for professional appraisers range from $100-$300 per hour
- In-home appraisal services, like those offered by Dr. Lori, can cost $999 or more
- Appraisal events at antique shows may offer quick verbal assessments for $15-50 per item
For insurance or tax purposes, expect to pay more for the detailed documentation required.
How can I find out what my antiques are worth?
There are several approaches to determining the value of your antiques:
- Professional appraisal: The most accurate method is hiring a certified appraiser specializing in your item type
- Auction house evaluation: Major auction houses like Heritage Auction offer complimentary auction assessments for items they might sell
- Antique dealer consultation: Local dealers may offer informal opinions, but be aware they may have an interest in purchasing
- Research comparable sales: Auction records, price guides, and online databases like WorthPoint can provide reference points
- Online valuation services: Digital platforms offer preliminary assessments based on photographs
- Appraisal events: Museums, antique shows, and charitable events sometimes host appraisal days
For valuable items or those needed for insurance, tax, or estate purposes, a professional written appraisal is strongly recommended.
How do I get my antiques valued?
To have your antiques professionally valued:
- Determine your purpose: Insurance, sale, estate planning, or curiosity
- Find a qualified appraiser: Use professional organization directories or local recommendations
- Verify credentials: Ensure they have proper certification and specialization in your item type
- Gather documentation: Collect any provenance information, receipts, or historical documentation
- Prepare your items: Clean gently and ensure all components are available
- Schedule an appointment: Arrange for in-person examination or follow guidelines for online submission
- Ask questions: Discuss the appraisal process and what information will be provided
- Review the results: Carefully examine the valuation and supporting documentation
For preliminary research, you can also visit local antique shops to talk with dealers and research comparable sales online.
How do I find an honest antique appraiser?
Finding a reputable, honest antique appraiser requires research and due diligence:
- Verify professional affiliations: Look for membership in recognized organizations like ISA, ASA, or AAA
- Check certification status: Ensure they have USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) compliance
- Investigate specialization: Find someone with expertise in your specific item category
- Review qualifications: Research their education, experience, and background
- Check for conflicts of interest: Avoid appraisers who offer to buy items they appraise
- Read reviews and testimonials: Check multiple sources for consistent positive feedback
- Ask for references: Request and contact previous clients
- Examine sample reports: Review (redacted) samples of their appraisal documentation
- Interview potential appraisers: Discuss their approach and methodology before committing
- Trust your instincts: If something feels unprofessional, seek another opinion
Remember that a quality appraiser will be transparent about their methods, clear about their fee structure, and willing to explain their qualifications.
Are there free antique appraisal services available?
While professional written appraisals always come with a fee, several options exist for free or low-cost preliminary valuations:
- Auction house evaluations: Many auction houses offer free assessments of items they might be interested in selling
- Museum appraisal events: Some museums host "Antiques Roadshow"-style events where experts give verbal opinions
- Antique shows: Many shows include appraisal booths with nominal fees ($5-20 per item)
- Dealer opinions: Some dealers offer informal assessments, though be aware of potential purchase interest
- Online forums: Collector communities sometimes provide general guidance (though accuracy varies greatly)
- Library resources: Price guides and reference books at public libraries can provide benchmark values
- Television appraisal shows: Programs like Antiques Roadshow occasionally visit different regions
Remember that free appraisals typically provide only verbal opinions without documentation and may not be suitable for insurance, tax, or legal purposes.
What information should a proper antique appraisal include?
A professional, comprehensive antique appraisal should include:
- Detailed item description: Thorough description including measurements, materials, and construction
- Maker identification: Artist, manufacturer, or origin information when known
- Age determination: Estimated date or period of creation
- Condition assessment: Detailed notes on condition, damage, repairs, and alterations
- Photographs: Multiple high-quality images documenting the item
- Provenance information: History of ownership, if known
- Value conclusion: Clearly stated value with specified valuation type (replacement, fair market, etc.)
- Valuation methodology: Explanation of how the value was determined
- Comparable sales data: References to similar items and their sale prices
- Appraiser credentials: The appraiser’s qualifications and certifications
- Signature and date: Formal authentication of the document
- Purpose statement: Clear indication of the appraisal’s intended use
- Limiting conditions: Any factors that affected the appraisal process
For legal, insurance, or tax purposes, the appraisal must also meet specific formatting and methodology requirements.
Conclusion
Finding the right antique appraiser in your area requires research, but the investment of time and money is worthwhile when you need accurate valuations for insurance, estate planning, or potential sales. By understanding the appraisal process, checking credentials, and preparing properly, you’ll ensure the most accurate and useful results.
Whether you choose a local independent appraiser, work with a national service, or start with an online consultation, the key is finding a qualified professional with expertise in your specific type of antiques. Remember that different appraisal purposes require different approaches and documentation standards, so clarify your needs from the beginning.
With the right antique appraiser, you’ll gain valuable insights into your treasured possessions, make informed decisions about their future, and potentially discover hidden gems in your collection.
