Our extensive list of appraisal services is backed by experience from a credentialed professional.

Donation Appraisal

A well-researched qualified appraisal report by a qualified appraiser is necessary to receive an IRS tax benefit when donating to museums or other charitable organizations. Any article or group of articles contributed within a calendar year valued at $5,000 and over must have a report. These appraisals are based on fair market values at the time of the donation. Our reports are researched thoroughly with market comparables and written rationale of value(s).

When choosing a “qualified” appraiser of tangible personal property for income, estate, and gift-tax purposes, a taxpayer must be in compliance with the appraisal regulations set forth by the IRS in section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The term “qualified” is summarized in IRS publication 561, “Determining the Value of Donated Property.”

Estate Tax, Probate & Gift Tax Appraisal

Appraisal reports are necessary for the calculation of taxes and useful for distribution. Fair market value appraisals are fully researched with relevant market comparables. All our appraisal reports meet IRS guidelines on Estate & Gift Taxes.

9th Circuit Court ruling that agreed with a U.S. Tax Court opinion that found an appraisal from an esteemed auction house is not an adequate assurance of appraisal expertise or competency. For more information, please read here.

Estate Planning Appraisal

Good estate planning will reduce estate distribution-related expenses, including taxes and tension among family members. In order to develop the most effective estate planning, advisors need a complete accounting of net worth – including tangible assets of fine and decorative arts.

Equitable Distribution Appraisal

Fair Market Value appraisals are provided for the division of property in such cases as divorce, legacy matters, or to determine the equal division of assets from a joint venture. We understand discretion, sensitivity, and efficiency are essential during the inspection process.

Insurance Coverage Appraisal

Art insurance policies, for the most part, are vague on definitions of value and valuation methods. A qualified appraiser can clarify these issues and clearly explain conclusions of value in an appraisal report. Each item is carefully measured, documented, and photographed with particular attention given to the condition. Each article is then extensively researched for replacement value in the most appropriate market. Appraisals should be re-evaluated every five years to protect your properties.

Damage & Loss Appraisal

In the event of a disagreement over a claim, the insured and insurer retain their own appraisers to assess value. If the appraisers arrive at a different value(s), their reports are then submitted to an arbitrator or judge who reviews their findings and makes a final decision. Critical decisions are made based on these reports — how the appropriate use of the definition of value is applied, identifying the most relevant markets, how thorough comparable properties are researched, how conclusions of values are argued, and the adherence to USPAP. Owners and attorneys need to be aware that their case depends on the appraiser’s knowledge, experience, education, credentials, and quality of work product. Not all appraisers are created equal.

We often provide appraisal reports for damage and loss claims for mediation, arbitration, or the court. These appraisals include detailed documentation, condition issues, and photographs of damaged objects resulting from breakage, theft, fire, water damage, and natural or other causes.

Litigation Support for Attorneys

We prepare an independent, impartial, and objective appraisal report in compliance with USPAP for litigation support. Prepare for and testify at a deposition or in court as a fact witness. Prepare for discovery or trial. Qualified to testify.

Expert Witness Appraisal

Credible, assured, qualified, and experienced Expert Witness in the valuation of fine and decorative arts. Litigation support in the form of appraisal valuation reports, appraisal reviews (rebuttal reports), depositions and testimonies, and verbal consultancy for attorneys — both plaintiff and defense. Past experience with complex cases litigated in California, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, New York, and Paris.

Liquidation and Bankruptcy Appraisal

Liquidation of your art collection can be a complicated process. Should your attorney determine that an art appraisal of your items is required, we will provide you with fair and accurate valuations of the articles in your possession.

Art Financing & Collateral Loan Appraisal

Owners can borrow against their art, high-end furniture or luxury items to finance new purchases, take advantage of fresh opportunities, expand business ventures, refinance debt, diversify a portfolio, or increase the liquidity of their assets. Financial intermediaries have responded to this opportunity for asset-backed lending.

Lending institutions are recognizing the value of works of art as collateral for personal loans. They require well documented and substantiated valuation for works of art that will be used as security. We will determine an accurate and defensible valuation of your articles that meet the lending institution’s underwriting requirements. For more information, please read here.

Fine Art Research, Purchase and Sales Advisory

We advise clients when considering sale or purchase of fine art. You will know how much you can get if you decide to sell your artwork through an auction house, consignment shop, or on your own. These reports help you decide how to maximize the sale of your art. We also provide second opinion statements. We also can provide a cost-benefit analysis to determine the benefits of sale vs. a charitable contribution or gift.