The appraisal process generally starts with a phone or email exchange during which we discuss the items in question and your need for an appraisal. If we agree to proceed, I then prepare an estimate and proposal for appraisal services. Upon receipt of the signed proposal and a deposit, I will schedule an in-person inspection, which will include photographs. The research, analysis and report writing follow; the appraisal process concludes with a printed and bound report and/or PDF.

I charge based on an hourly rate which includes on-site and meeting time, research, analysis and report writing. I require a deposit of one-third of the estimate before I start the inspection with the balance due upon delivery of the report.  

If I foresee a need to contract with outside experts (such as professional photographers, conservators, scholars, or dealers) we’ll discuss that at the outset of the appraisal process or as the need becomes apparent.

Before starting the project, I will need to gather information from you such as: the intended use and intended users of the appraisal, information related to the ownership of the artwork, and related receipts or documentation, and any identifying reference numbers, such as insurance claim or police report numbers. 

I have been an Accredited Member of the International Society of Appraisers since 1999. According to ISA, this means: that I have achieved the designation of “qualified appraiser” as defined by the Appraisers Qualification Board of the Appraisal Foundation and that I have declared a speciality in fine art and demonstrated significant, appraisal-related experience in fine art. In order to maintain my accredited status, I am required to requalify every five years.

According to The Appraisal Foundation, USPAP is an abbreviation for “Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice” and is the generally recognized ethical and performance standards for the appraisal profession in the United States. USPAP was adopted by Congress in 1989 and is updated every two years.

I live and work in Seattle and I regularly accept assignments throughout the Puget Sound region and Washington state, including Bellevue, Bellingham, Tacoma, Olympia, and Spokane.

I try to make regular trips to Washington, DC and I seek out opportunities to travel nationally for work.

The Internal Revenue Service defines fair market value as: The price at which property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts. It is used for all IRS related functions (non-cash charitable donations, gift tax, and estate tax) and often, equitable distribution, damage and loss, and resale.

As defined by the International Society of Appraisers, Replacement Cost is defined as: the cost necessary to replace an item of personal property with an equivalent item having similar appearance, quality, condition, age, authorship and utility as the item being appraised. It is generally used for insurance related purposes.

Go ahead and contact me and I’ll do my best to recommend a trusted colleague.