Anything you can think of has a value. There are many times in your life that you may need to know the value of something you own or want to own. Having the “something” appraised will help you make decisions about how to care for or deal with that piece. Appraisers value everything: real estate, jewelry, antiques, businesses, cars, airplanes, animals, corporate assets, utilities, intellectual properties, careers, ancient manuscripts and even roadside signs. 

Why get something appraised?

Appraisers give you their professional opinion of the value of what you have. With that knowledge, you can decide how to take care of the item, whether or not to insure it, and how much to sell it for if you decide to part with it. Appraisal reports are used as proof of value in estate, divorce and other legal cases, and with the IRS and with insurance companies should you have a loss or damage to your property.

Why is it important to get a professional appraisal?

You may think because of something you have seen on television, that you can get an item appraised in 10 minutes or less and that the appraisal may even be free. However, in the appraisal world as is true everywhere else—you get what you pay for. Accredited appraisers take time to research the background of your possessions and understand the market for them. Qualified appraisers do not guess at values on the spot.

There are many people who call themselves appraisers but who are not accredited and have no formal training. It is important to hire an appraiser who is accredited by a reputable valuation organization like the American Society of Appraisers (ASA). Members of ASA adhere to the strictest ethical standards and are required to have years of experience, education and training before they are accredited. The ASA directory makes it easy to find an accredited appraiser in the specialty you are looking for.

ASA is the only professional valuation organization that accredits members in every appraisal discipline. This is especially important for business clients who may need accredited appraisers from more than one discipline to complete a project.

The members of the American Society of Appraisers know that a well-educated client is the best client. Therefore, ASA offers tips and information about taking care of and appraising your valuables; getting your business valued; getting your home appraised; appraising and protecting your jewelry; and assessing your machinery, utilities and other technical specialties.