An appraisal is an opinion of value. There are different types of appraisals depending on the intended use. It may be to estimate the value by researching the realized prices for the same or similar items in the marketplace. It may be to calculate what it would cost to replace an item for insurance. Or it could be to determine the value of property for tax purposes. An appraiser does not “guess” the value of an object. They research marketplaces to be able to give an objective opinion of value.

There are many reasons for an appraisal, but some of the most common are: a value for resale, an IRS estate tax appraisal, distribution of inherited items, insurance and insurance loss, charitable donation or “just want to know”.

Knowing the value of your possessions can help make decisions in many of these circumstances.

Personal property refers to movable assets, including but not limited to furniture, artwork, jewelry, collectibles, and household items. Real estate, on the other hand, is considered real property.

A personal property appraiser is a professional who assesses the value of tangible assets like art, antiques, and other personal belongings. They use their expertise to provide accurate and impartial appraisals for various purposes.

A Certified Appraiser of Person Property (CAPP) designation from the International Society of Appraisers represents the top level of education and experience. A certified appraiser has many hours of education in the field, has passed several rigorous examinations and adheres to ethical and professional standards.

A preliminary free consultation with Lesley can help determine initial information about the property. Sometime pictures can be sent in advance to help answer this question. 

Lesley appraises all types of personal property but specializes in estate and household contents such as decorative objects, silver, china, furniture, and artworks.

Depending on the items to be appraised, often excellent pictures and a thorough description by the client are all that is needed for Lesley to give a virtual appraisal. It can be written or oral but will state that the items have not been personally inspected by her. 

Lesley charges an hourly rate for her appraisals. An ethical, certified appraiser never charges based on a percentage of the value of the item. 

Often a client just needs help sorting through an overwhelming amount of objects. Knowing what has some value and what might be easily sold or donated can help reduce the stress. A Walk-Through is not an appraisal but a service Lesley offers clients to give them information about their belongings and help them understand if they need an appraisal.