“Near me” searches usually mean you’re trying to solve a practical problem fast: you’re selling, insuring, donating, dividing an estate, or you just inherited something and need an honest reality check.
The good news: many excellent art appraisers work locally. The tricky part is separating true valuation professionals from general “buyers,” influencer-style “quick opinions,” or specialists who aren’t right for your medium (paintings vs prints vs sculpture vs photography).
This guide explains what an art appraisal should include, what it typically costs, and exactly what to photograph so you can get an accurate, defensible number.
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What an art appraiser actually does (and what they don’t)
A professional appraisal is more than a “what would it sell for?” guess. A good report is a written, evidence-based valuation tied to a defined purpose and date.
- They define the valuation problem: insurance replacement value vs fair market value vs donation-related value.
- They authenticate at a practical level: medium, signatures/marks, edition details, and red flags. (Full authentication boards/labs are separate.)
- They analyze comparables: recent auction results and relevant retail/market listings.
- They document condition: cracks, repairs, lining, overpaint, paper toning, tears, etc.
What they typically do not do: conservation work (restoration), guarantees of authenticity for every category, or buying your piece (many ethical appraisers avoid conflicts of interest).
When you need an appraisal (and which value you actually need)
Two people can appraise the same artwork and produce different numbers — without either being “wrong” — if the purpose is different. Ask for the standard of value up front.
| Purpose | Typical value basis | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance | Retail Replacement Value | Replacing with a comparable work in the retail market |
| Estate / divorce / equitable distribution | Fair Market Value (as-of date) | Tax filings, settlements, and defensible documentation |
| Donation | Fair Market Value + IRS-ready support | Charitable deductions (rules vary by jurisdiction) |
| Selling / consigning | Likely auction / market value range | Pricing strategy and the best channel for your medium |
How to find an art appraiser near you (a practical checklist)
In most cities you’ll see a mix of museum-adjacent experts, auction-house specialists, independent appraisers, and antiques dealers. “Near me” is useful for in-person inspection, but credentials and specialization matter more than driving distance.
1) Start with credentials and ethics
- USPAP compliance: the U.S. professional standard for many appraisal assignments.
- Recognized organizations: American Society of Appraisers (ASA), International Society of Appraisers (ISA), Appraisers Association of America (AAA).
- Conflict-of-interest clarity: ask whether they also buy/consign in the same category.
2) Match the appraiser to your medium
Fine art is broad. A specialist in prints may not be the right pick for bronze sculpture, photography, or contemporary mixed media. Ask what they appraise most frequently and request example reports.
3) Ask the five questions that save you time (and money)
- What standard of value will you use (and why)?
- What comps will you rely on (auction, gallery retail, private sales)?
- How do you handle authenticity uncertainty in the report?
- What deliverable do I get (PDF, photos, condition notes, comps list)?
- What is your fee structure and timeline?
How much does an art appraisal cost?
Fees vary by region and by complexity. Many appraisers charge hourly (often with a minimum), while others use flat fees for clearly scoped items.
- Simple single-item opinion: often starts in the low hundreds.
- USPAP-style written report: typically higher because it includes research, comps, and documentation.
- Large collections / estates: priced by time, item count, travel, and photography needs.
Tip: if someone offers to appraise for “free” but expects to buy it, you’re no longer getting an independent valuation — you’re negotiating a purchase.
What to prepare before you contact an appraiser
The fastest way to get a useful answer is to send the right photos in the right order. The goal isn’t artistic photography — it’s evidence.
What drives art value (quick framework)
Appraisers don’t value art with a single magic formula. They build a value range from multiple signals — and the highest-impact signals are often the most mundane.
- Attribution/authenticity: “by” vs “after” vs “school of” can change value dramatically.
- Medium and edition: original oil vs lithograph; print edition size; proofs; paper quality.
- Condition: repairs, relining, overpaint, paper toning, foxing, tears, frame stability.
- Provenance: invoices, exhibition history, labels, collection stamps, and publication history.
- Subject matter and period: “best period” works can outpace later or atypical subjects.
- Market liquidity: how often comparable works trade, and where they reliably sell.
Auction comps: three real-world examples (and what they teach)
Comparables are the backbone of a defensible appraisal. Below are three recent auction results from the Appraisily auction dataset. The point isn’t the exact price — it’s how the details (artist, medium, condition, and demand) change the market.
Image gallery: details appraisers look for
If you’re getting an appraisal “near me,” you may be able to bring the artwork in for inspection. If the appraisal starts remotely, these are the close-ups that help the most.
Local vs online appraisals: which one should you choose?
If you have a complex piece (large painting, fragile paper, sculpture) or you need a formal report for insurance/estate, an in-person “near me” inspection can be valuable. For many everyday appraisals, remote review is enough to establish a range and advise on next steps.
- Choose local/in-person when condition and materials require hands-on inspection.
- Choose online/remote when speed matters and good photos can answer most questions.
- Hybrid works well: start remote to narrow attribution and value, then book a local inspection if the upside warrants it.
FAQ
Can an art appraiser authenticate my artwork?
Often they can provide an attribution opinion and identify red flags, but full authentication may require the artist’s foundation, catalogue raisonné research, or lab testing.
Should I clean or “touch up” a painting before appraisal?
No. Cleaning and restoration can accidentally damage surfaces or reduce value. Document condition first, then follow a conservator’s advice.
What if I only have a photo and a signature?
You can still start the process. A good appraiser will ask for more angles (front, back, edges), measurements, and any history you have.
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