What do I look for when I hire an appraiser?

It is important to hire an appraiser who is accredited in his or her field. Ask for professional affiliation and credentials. Personal property appraisers can value all types of objects, though some appraisers specialize in certain types of objects.  Within the personal property discipline, appraisers specialize in properties ranging from Oriental rugs, to antique automobiles, to 18th-century American silver. You can find a specialist in your area in the ASA directory.

Make sure you study an appraiser’s résumé and references. Every reputable accredited appraiser will provide this information and you shouldn’t hire someone who doesn’t readily provide it.

Don’t use an appraiser who offers to buy the item or charges a percentage of the item's value. This is unethical. An appraiser can’t give an unbiased opinion of value if he or she has a monetary interest in the worth of the item.