Appraisal Services

An appraisal is a process leading to an opinion of value.  The appraiser arrives at this opinion through a series of steps.  All our appraisal reports will contain the following:

  • Transmittal letter

  • Type of report

  • Intended use

  • Intended users

  • Type of value (including definition)

  • Approaches to value

  • Limiting conditions and assumptions

  • Certification

  • Privacy policy

  • Description of the property, background information and photographs

  • Market analysis

  • Glossary of terms

  • Bibliography and sources consulted

  • Appraiser credentials

Hiring a professional appraiser is the best way to obtain an expertly prepared appraisal report.  Giardina Fine Art Appraisal Services personally examines the property on the premises unless otherwise agreed upon by the client.  Items are catalogued, photographed and examined for condition, markings and characteristics of value.  If necessary, experts are available to authenticate a property. 

The property, artist, provenance and value are carefully researched.  We have access to worldwide research libraries, global price databases, and an array of specialists in every area of expertise.  Comparables are collected from the relevant market and a value is determined.  The resulting appraisal report is a professional document conforming to USPAP standards. Throughout the process client confidentiality is strictly maintained.  Giardina Fine Art Appraisal Services is fully insured. Client work files are retained for 5 years. 

Types of Appraisals

Insurance Coverage
We work with policy holders and insurance providers.  Our insurance appraisal reports conform to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Property is evaluated at Retail Replacement Value in order to protect the owner in the event of damage or loss. 

Damage and Loss
We work with policy holders and insurance providers. Our appraisal reports conform to USPAP standards.    Damaged or lost property is appraised for the purpose of determining value as of the date of loss.  Our experience with conservation and our network of restoration specialists are invaluable in determining restoration needs.  For damaged property we will consider diminution of value in our scope of work. For total loss, value is reconstructed based on existing data and research.  

Estate Tax and Planning
We work with individuals and legal and financial professionals for property included in an estate.  Our appraisal reports conform to USPAP standards.  Property for estate purposes is generally appraised at Fair Market Value.

Equitable Distribution
We work with either individuals or legal and financial professionals when property is part of an estate or divorce proceeding.  Our appraisal reports conform to USPAP standards.  Property is usually appraised at Fair Market Value but depends on jurisdiction or agreement.  Once value is established in an appraisal report, assets can be more easily divided among heirs or spouses. 

Non-Cash Charitable Contribution
We work with individuals who are donating property valued over $5,000 and would like to claim a tax deduction. The IRS requires an appraisal by a professional appraiser in order to substantiate the tax deduction. Reports must conform to IRS requirements and current regulations.  Our appraisal reports also conform to USPAP standards.  Property is appraised at Fair Market Value.

Acquisition and Disposition
We work with individuals who are interested in either purchasing or selling personal property and are looking for a value of said property.   Our appraisal reports conform to USPAP standards.  Type of value used will vary depending on intended use, property involved, market conditions and market level.  The appraisal will assist the client in his or her decision to purchase or sell the property.