Estate Appraisals

Precise appraisals for equitable distribution

We provide USPAP-compliant equitable estate distribution appraisals and IRS-qualified 706 estate tax appraisals suitable for use by families, executors, attorneys, and financial professionals. Our reports offer clear, impartial valuations of personal and business property to support fair asset distribution and accurate estate documentation. Each appraisal is prepared as a professional, court-ready report, designed to meet the needs of both legal representatives and non-legal parties seeking dependable, well-supported valuation information.

Unbiased, USPAP-compliant, and IRS-qualified Appraisal Reports.

On-site, virtual, and remote appraisal services are available nationwide.

Family joyfully anticipates a new baby's arrival!

When a family is faced with a move, downsizing, probate, divorce, or the loss of a loved one, the home is often only part of the story. Fine art, jewelry, watches, antiques, collections, firearms, designer furnishings, and vehicles can carry significant financial, legal, and emotional importance.

The challenge is that original cost does not always equal current value.

A work of art purchased on a cruise for several thousand dollars may have little resale demand today if it was mass-produced or if hundreds of similar works are available online. On the other hand, a painting that has been stored away for decades may turn out to be an important original with a strong collector market. The difference often comes down to the artist, authenticity, provenance, condition, size, subject matter, and what comparable works have actually sold for—not simply what someone is asking online.

The same is true for other categories of personal property. A vehicle’s market value can be affected by mileage, title history, accidents, maintenance, mechanical condition, prior use, and current market demand. Jewelry, watches, collectible firearms, antiques, and designer items must also be evaluated individually. Brand recognition alone does not guarantee value; condition, documentation, rarity, materials, and active buyer demand all matter.

For families and professional advisors, the first step is often not to sell or discard anything. It is to slow down, document the property, and understand what is there.

Clear photographs, dimensions, signatures, labels, receipts, gallery information, service records, and family history can all be helpful. For fine art, it is especially important to photograph the front and back of the work, including signatures, labels, stretcher markings, and any certificates or invoices. These details can help determine whether an item is an original, an edition, a reproduction, or something requiring further authentication.

A professional appraisal may be appropriate when property is needed for probate, estate tax reporting, insurance scheduling, charitable giving, divorce, bankruptcy, equitable distribution, or a planned sale. The purpose of the appraisal matters because the proper definition of value and the research required may differ from one assignment to another.

Families should also understand that an appraisal is not the same as an auction estimate or an offer to buy. An appraisal is an independent opinion of value based on the intended use, applicable standards, market research, condition, and relevant comparable sales.

For many families, knowing what they have brings peace of mind. It provides a clearer starting point for decisions that can otherwise feel overwhelming, emotional, and time-sensitive.

Mandy Peterson is an Accredited Member of the International Society of Appraisers specializing in Fine Art and the owner of 706 Estate Appraisals and The Peterson Exchange – Auctions & Appraisals. She provides USPAP-compliant appraisal, inventory, auction, and estate-transition services for families, fiduciaries, attorneys, and advisors.