Frequently asked questions

What is The Peterson Exchange?

The Peterson Exchange is a professional appraisal and estate services firm providing USPAP‑compliant, IRS‑qualified valuations and estate support for clients across all 50 states. We serve attorneys, fiduciaries, insurance professionals, and families who need clear, defensible valuations for personal property, collections, and business contents.

What makes your appraisals IRS‑qualified and USPAP‑compliant?

All reports are developed and written in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), including proper scope of work, research, and documentation. Reports are prepared to meet IRS expectations for estate tax (Form 706), noncash charitable contributions, and other tax‑related filings so they can stand up to review or audit.

What types of property do you appraise?

Services cover personal property such as fine art, jewelry, coins, antiques, furniture, decorative arts, collections, and general household or business contents. Assignments can range from a single high‑value item to full‑contents estates, trust assets, or business property for legal, tax, or insurance purposes.

Do you work only in Florida?

No. While based in Florida, The Peterson Exchange provides estate appraisals and appraisal examinations for clients nationwide through virtual and on‑site services. Engagements are tailored to the assignment, using photographs, documents, and when needed, in‑person inspections to ensure accurate, credible results.

How much does an appraisal cost?

Fees are based on time, scope, and complexity of the assignment—not on the value of the property—so there is no conflict of interest. After a brief consultation and review of your needs, you receive an estimate outlining anticipated fees before work begins.

When should I consider an appraisal or estate services?

Clients typically reach out for appraisals when handling estate settlements, trust administration, divorce, insurance claims, charitable donations, or resale decisions. Estate organizing, inventory, and auction preparation services are helpful when you need to sort, document, and responsibly sell or distribute property.

How do you support attorneys and legal professionals?

The Peterson Exchange provides clear, well‑documented reports, organized inventories, and photo documentation that integrate smoothly into your case files and court submissions. We communicate in plain language, meet deadlines, and are available to clarify methodology or findings when needed, helping you move matters forward with fewer surprises.

Are your reports suitable for court and IRS review?

Yes. All appraisals are developed and written in compliance with USPAP and prepared to meet IRS expectations for estate tax, noncash charitable contributions, and other tax‑related filings. Reports are structured to be defensible under scrutiny, with transparent methodology, research notes, and supporting exhibits.

Do you offer online estate auctions in Central Florida?
Yes. Through our trusted online auction partner, we coordinate efficient, transparent estate auctions for clients in Central Florida. These sales are designed to maximize fair market exposure and proceeds while providing a clear, documented trail of items sold and results for attorneys, fiduciaries, and families.