Get Your Antique Furniture Appraised: Complete Expert Guide
Learn how to get antique furniture appraised with our comprehensive guide covering professional appraisers, online options, costs, and what to expect during the process.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated October 25, 2023
Introduction to Antique Furniture Appraisals
Whether you’ve inherited a family heirloom, discovered a potential treasure at an estate sale, or are simply curious about the value of an antique piece you’ve owned for years, getting your antique furniture professionally appraised is a crucial step in understanding its true worth. An expert appraisal not only provides you with an accurate valuation but can also reveal fascinating details about your furniture’s history, craftsmanship, and significance in the antiques market.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting antique furniture appraised, from preparation to finding the right appraiser to understanding the results. We’ll cover both traditional in-person appraisals and modern online options, helping you choose the approach that best suits your needs and budget.
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<span>Why Get Your Antique Furniture Appraised?</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the value of your antique furniture serves multiple important purposes beyond simple curiosity.</div>
An accurate professional appraisal of your antique furniture can be essential for:
Insurance purposes - Ensuring your valuable pieces are properly covered
Estate planning - Dividing assets equitably among heirs
Potential sale - Establishing a fair asking price
Tax considerations - Accurate valuations for donations or estate taxes
Authentication - Confirming the genuine nature and age of your piece
Additionally, a professional appraisal can reveal important historical context about your furniture, including its age, origin, style period, and the techniques used in its construction. This information enhances your appreciation of the piece and can significantly impact its value.
Antique Furniture Appraisal Facts
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<span>Preparing Your Antique Furniture for Appraisal</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Before seeking an appraisal, proper preparation can help ensure you receive the most accurate assessment possible.</div>
Research Your Furniture
Begin by gathering as much information about your furniture as possible:
Provenance: Document the history of ownership if known
Age: Note approximate age or period if you have this information
Maker’s marks: Check for signatures, stamps, or labels from the manufacturer
Restoration history: Note any repairs or modifications that have been made
Original purchase information: Include receipts or documentation if available
According to Fontaine’s Auction Gallery, “The more information you can provide about your antique furniture, the more accurate and detailed your appraisal will be.”
Document Your Piece
Take clear, well-lit photographs of your furniture from multiple angles:
Furniture Documentation Checklist
Ensure you capture these important elements
Full front, back, and side views
Close-ups of any maker's marks or signatures
Detail shots of decorative elements
Areas showing condition issues or damage
Hardware details (knobs, hinges, etc.)
Inside drawers and cabinets
Additionally, take precise measurements of your piece, including height, width, depth, and any other relevant dimensions. This information will be particularly important for online appraisals.
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<span>Different Methods to Get Antique Furniture Appraised</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">There are multiple approaches to getting your antique furniture appraised, each with advantages and considerations.</div>
In-Person Professional Appraisal
Working directly with a professional appraiser provides the most thorough assessment:
Pros:
Allows the appraiser to examine construction details firsthand
Enables authentication of materials and techniques
Provides opportunity for detailed discussion and questions
Often includes comprehensive written appraisal documentation
Cons:
Typically more expensive than other options
May require transporting large furniture pieces
Can take longer to schedule and complete
To find qualified local appraisers, Liberty Mutual recommends checking with professional organizations like the International Society of Appraisers, the American Society of Appraisers, or the Appraisers Association of America, all of which maintain directories of certified members.
Online Appraisal Services
Virtual appraisals have become increasingly popular and sophisticated:
Pros:
Convenient and accessible from anywhere
Generally less expensive than in-person appraisals
Quick turnaround times (often 24-48 hours)
No need to transport furniture
Cons:
Appraiser cannot physically examine the piece
May be less detailed than in-person assessments
Quality varies widely between services
According to Value My Stuff, “All you need to do is to take images of your piece, measure it and write a short description of your furniture in our online form. After you submit your request, our experts will provide a detailed appraisal within 24-48 hours.”
Auction House Evaluations
Many auction houses offer free appraisals or valuation days:
Pros:
Often free or low-cost
Conducted by specialists with market expertise
Can lead directly to consignment opportunities if you wish to sell
Access to specialists in specific furniture periods or styles
Cons:
Focus is typically on auction value rather than insurance or replacement value
May require appointment or attending special evaluation events
Primary interest is in high-value items they may want to auction
Heritage Auctions offers free online appraisals, noting: “Simply upload photos and tell us about your Collectibles. Our experts will evaluate your items for auction inclusion and can provide estimated values.”
Antique Shows and Appraisal Events
As Consumer Reports mentions, “Many auction houses and antique shows hold regular appraisal days where you can bring items for assessment. Search on their websites for ‘valuation day’ or ‘appraisal day.’”
These events offer opportunities to:
Get quick verbal assessments from experts
Learn about your furniture in a educational setting
Connect with specialists in your furniture’s style or period
Network with other collectors and enthusiasts
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<span>Understanding Appraisal Costs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Appraisal fees vary widely depending on the type of service, the appraiser’s expertise, and the purpose of the appraisal.</div>
According to Lion & Unicorn, “The antique appraisal cost can vary significantly depending on various factors, such as the size and age of the item, the level of expertise required, and the location of the appraiser. However, sellers generally expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for an initial appraisal by a certified appraiser.”
Typical Appraisal Cost Ranges
Average costs for different appraisal methods (2023 data)
Category
Price
Notes
Online Appraisal Services
$10-$50 per item
Quick turnaround, convenient
Verbal Consultation
$50-$150 per hour
No formal documentation provided
Written Appraisal (Insurance)
$200-$400 per item
Detailed report for insurance purposes
Formal Appraisal (Legal)
$300-$600+ per item
Comprehensive documentation for legal or tax situations
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Factors That Affect Appraisal Costs
Several elements can influence how much you’ll pay for an appraisal:
Purpose of the appraisal - Insurance appraisals typically cost more than auction estimates
Appraiser’s credentials - Certified specialists generally charge higher fees
Geographic location - Urban areas tend to have higher rates
Complexity of the item - Rare or unusual pieces may require more research
Number of items - Many appraisers offer discounted rates for multiple pieces
Free and Low-Cost Options
If you’re working with a limited budget, consider these alternatives:
Auction house valuation days - Many offer free evaluations hoping to find items to consign
Antique shows with appraisal booths - Often charge $5-15 per item for verbal assessments
Reddit communities - As mentioned in this Reddit thread, some online communities offer informal assessments
Antique dealer consultations - Some dealers will provide free evaluations with the hope of purchasing items
Remember that free appraisals may be less detailed or comprehensive than paid professional services, and often represent wholesale rather than retail values.
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<span>What to Expect During the Appraisal Process</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Understanding what happens during an appraisal helps you prepare properly and get the most value from the service.</div>
For In-Person Appraisals
Initial consultation - Discussion of your furniture and appraisal needs
Physical examination - The appraiser will study construction techniques, materials, and condition
Research phase - The appraiser may need to research similar pieces and market trends
Documentation - Photos and measurements will be taken
Valuation determination - Based on all factors, a value will be assigned
Report delivery - You’ll receive a formal written report for paid appraisals
According to AppraiseItNow, “There are five steps to appraising antique furniture accurately: inspecting the item, researching the piece, assessing any repairs or damages, taking into account the current market, and determining the final value.”
For Online Appraisals
Information submission - You’ll upload photos and provide details about your furniture
Payment processing - Most online services require payment before proceeding
Expert review - A specialist will examine your submitted materials
Research and valuation - The appraiser researches comparable items and market trends
Report delivery - You’ll typically receive an email with your appraisal results
Follow-up questions - Some services allow for clarification questions after receiving your report
What Appraisers Look For
Professional appraisers evaluate furniture based on several key factors:
Appraisal Evaluation Factors
Authenticity
Verifying Genuine Articles
Appraisers examine construction methods, materials, and stylistic elements to confirm the piece is authentic to its purported period.
Condition
Assessing Preservation
The overall condition significantly impacts value. Original finishes, hardware, and minimal damage command higher valuations.
Provenance
Tracing History
Documentation of previous ownership, especially by notable individuals or from important collections, can substantially increase value.
Rarity
Evaluating Scarcity
Uncommon pieces, limited productions, or items by sought-after makers typically command premium prices.
Quality
Judging Craftsmanship
Superior workmanship, fine materials, and exceptional design elevate a piece’s market value.
According to Value My Stuff’s blog, “When appraising antique furniture, experts consider the quality of construction, the type of wood used, the condition, any maker’s marks, and the historical significance of the style.”
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<span>Types of Appraisal Reports</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Different appraisal purposes require different types of reports, each with specific information and levels of detail.</div>
Verbal Consultations
The most basic form of appraisal:
Usually delivered in person or via phone/video call
No formal written documentation
Provides general value range and basic information
Appropriate for preliminary assessments or when deciding whether to pursue a formal appraisal
Market Value Appraisals
Used primarily when considering selling an item:
Focuses on the current fair market value
Considers what similar items have recently sold for
May include auction estimates or dealer retail prices
Often less detailed than insurance appraisals
Insurance Appraisals
Designed specifically for insurance coverage:
Determines replacement value (cost to replace with a similar item)
Typically higher than market value
Includes detailed documentation and photographs
Often required by insurance companies for high-value items
Estate and Tax Appraisals
Used for legal and tax purposes:
Adheres to IRS or legal standards for valuation
May use “date of death” values for estate settlements
Requires the most comprehensive documentation
Must be performed by certified appraisers who can testify to values if needed
Authentication Reports
Focused primarily on establishing authenticity:
Determines if a piece is genuine to its purported age and maker
May include scientific analysis of materials or construction
Particularly important for very high-value or rare items
Often performed by specialists in a particular maker or period
<span>Tips for Getting the Most Accurate Appraisal</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Follow these expert recommendations to ensure you receive the most accurate and useful appraisal possible.</div>
Choose the Right Appraiser
The expertise of your appraiser significantly impacts the accuracy of your valuation:
Verify credentials - Look for certification from recognized organizations
Check specialization - Find someone who specializes in your furniture’s period or style
Request references - Ask for testimonials from previous clients
Research reputation - Look for reviews or ask for recommendations from antique dealers
Be Transparent About Condition
According to The Decorative Collective, honesty about condition issues is essential for accurate valuation:
Disclose all damage - Point out any known flaws, repairs, or alterations
Don’t attempt last-minute repairs - Improper repairs can decrease value
Avoid excessive cleaning - Original patina can be valuable; harsh cleaning can damage it
Document known history - Share any known provenance or ownership history
Get Multiple Opinions for Valuable Items
For particularly valuable or rare pieces:
Seek second opinions - Consider getting appraisals from 2-3 different experts
Compare different appraisal types - Insurance values differ from auction estimates
Consult specialists - For rare or important pieces, seek out top experts in that specific area
Reassess periodically - Antique markets change; update appraisals every 3-5 years
Understand Market Fluctuations
Antique furniture values can vary significantly over time:
Current trends - Certain styles move in and out of fashion
Economic conditions - Luxury markets are affected by broader economic trends
Regional variations - Values may differ between locations
Recent comparable sales - Recent auction results provide current market indicators
Common Questions About Antique Furniture Appraisals
How much does it cost to get antique furniture appraised?
The cost of antique furniture appraisals varies widely depending on the service type:
Online appraisals typically range from $10-$50 per item
Verbal consultations usually cost $50-$150 per hour
Written insurance appraisals average $200-$400 per item
Formal legal or tax appraisals can cost $300-$600+ per item
Many auction houses also offer free evaluations with the hope of finding items to consign for sale. The price also depends on the appraiser’s expertise, your geographic location, and the complexity of the item being appraised.
What is the best way to get antique furniture appraised online?
For online appraisals, follow these steps for best results:
Choose a reputable service with verified antique furniture experts
Take high-quality, well-lit photos from multiple angles
Include close-ups of details, maker’s marks, and condition issues
Provide accurate measurements and any known history
Be specific about what information you need (insurance value, auction estimate, etc.)
Established services like Value My Stuff, WorthPoint, and Heritage Auctions offer reliable online appraisal options. For more casual assessments, specialized forums or Reddit communities like r/Antiques can provide preliminary insights.
How can I find a reputable antique furniture appraiser near me?
To find qualified local appraisers:
Check professional organizations’ directories:
International Society of Appraisers
American Society of Appraisers
Appraisers Association of America
Contact local auction houses and ask for recommendations
Inquire at antique dealers and shops in your area
Ask for referrals from museum curators who specialize in furniture
Check with your insurance company for their list of approved appraisers
Always verify credentials and ask about their specific experience with your type of antique furniture.
Can I get antique furniture appraised for free?
Yes, there are several ways to get free or low-cost preliminary assessments:
Auction house evaluation days or events
Antique shows with appraisal booths (typically $5-15 per item)
Local museum “identification days”
Some antique dealers offer free evaluations (though they may be hoping to purchase)
Online communities like Reddit’s r/Antiques
Free online appraisal offers from auction houses like Heritage Auctions
Keep in mind that free appraisals are typically less comprehensive than paid services and may focus on auction value rather than insurance or replacement value.
What information do I need to prepare before getting my furniture appraised?
Before seeking an appraisal, gather as much of this information as possible:
Measurements (height, width, depth)
Clear photographs from multiple angles
Close-up images of any maker’s marks, labels, or signatures
Known provenance or history of ownership
Documentation of previous appraisals or purchase receipts
Details about any repairs or restoration work
Information about the piece’s acquisition (when and where you got it)
Any special features or unusual characteristics
The more information you can provide, the more accurate and detailed your appraisal will be.
How long does an antique furniture appraisal take?
The timeframe for appraisals varies by method:
Online appraisals: Typically 24-48 hours after submission
Verbal consultations: Usually completed during a scheduled appointment
Written appraisals: 1-2 weeks for standard reports
Detailed formal appraisals: 2-4 weeks, depending on complexity and research required
Auction house evaluations: Often provided at the time of inspection
Complex or unusual pieces that require extensive research may take longer. Expedited services are sometimes available for an additional fee.
What's the difference between an auction estimate and an insurance appraisal?
These appraisals serve different purposes and typically result in different valuations:
Auction Estimate:
Predicts the likely selling range at auction
Represents the current market value in a competitive bidding environment
Usually presented as a range (e.g., $800-$1,200)
Often lower than retail replacement value
Used primarily when considering selling an item
Insurance Appraisal:
Determines the cost to replace the item with something of similar quality and age
Typically higher than auction values
Stated as a specific amount, not a range
Often based on retail replacement cost in the current market
Used for insuring valuable pieces against loss or damage
The same piece of furniture might have an auction estimate of $1,000-$1,500 but an insurance appraisal of $2,500.
Should I clean or restore my antique furniture before getting it appraised?
Generally, it’s best NOT to clean or restore antique furniture before an appraisal:
Original patina and finish are often valued elements
Inappropriate cleaning can damage surfaces and reduce value
Modern repairs or refinishing frequently decrease value
Appraisers prefer to see the authentic condition
Professional restoration should only be done after expert consultation
Instead, simply dust the piece gently with a soft cloth. If the appraiser recommends restoration, they can often suggest appropriate specialists.
Conclusion: Getting the Most from Your Antique Furniture Appraisal
Getting your antique furniture professionally appraised is an investment in understanding its true value and history. Whether you choose an in-person expert assessment, an online service, or an auction house evaluation, the insights gained can help you make informed decisions about insurance, potential sales, or simply appreciating the treasures you own.
Remember that the most valuable appraisals come from qualified experts who specialize in your particular type of furniture. Take time to properly document your piece, research its background, and select the right appraisal method for your specific needs.
For particularly valuable or rare items, consider getting multiple opinions and updating appraisals periodically as market conditions change. The antique furniture market continually evolves, with certain styles and makers moving in and out of favor, affecting values accordingly.
Finally, approach the appraisal process as an educational opportunity. Beyond simply learning what your furniture is worth, a good appraisal offers fascinating insights into craftsmanship, historical context, and the stories embedded in these tangible connections to the past.
