ESTATE APPRAISAL of Fine Art
An estate appraisal is needed when a will and/or trust is being created, or when property is being inherited. The usual objective of an estate appraisal is to: represent the property fairly and accurately for estate tax purposes, to provide evaluation at fair market value, and to adhere to IRS regulations.
Benefits
When an appraisal is recorded during the creation of a will or trust, it establishes a value for the property. This allows the owner and future recipients of the property to chart its value over time. This value is used when determining inheritance distribution.
An appraisal provides peace of mind to the owner of property and to the recipients of the estate. An impartial appraisal will negate any disputes over value, and lets the estate process proceed in a timely manner.
Lawyers and Accountants:
I also have experience with:
- Expert Witness Testimony
- Divorce valuations
- Equitable distribution
For the most up-to-date IRS regulations, forms and publication, you may visit www.irs.gov. This link does not imply a relationship to, or recognition, approval or sanction of this appraiser by the IRS; rather, the link is simply provided as a convenience mechanism for the taxpayer’s ease of reference. Furthermore, there is no marketing relationship between this appraiser and the Internal Revenue Service.
Member: Appraisers Association of America
New England 508.577.7377 ¦ Toll Free 877.278.9778 ¦ Miami to Palm Beach 786.581.7260 ¦ Email linda@fineartsappraiser.com
FAQ’s
What exactly does an art appraiser do?
An art appraiser provides a formal, independent, and objective evaluation of the value of your artwork or collectibles. This involves examining the piece, researching its provenance (history), analyzing the current market, and producing a legal document detailing its worth.
What is the difference between an appraisal and an authentication?
This is a common point of confusion!
* **Authentication** proves *what* an artwork is (verifying the artist, era, and legitimacy).
* **Appraisal** determines *what it is worth* in today’s market.
While we research authenticity as part of our process, we do not issue official certificates of authenticity. If your piece requires expert authentication, we can guide you to the right
How do you determine the value of a piece of art?
We look at a combination of factors, including:
* **Artist & Significance:** The artist’s market demand and the piece’s importance within their career.
* **Condition:** Any damage, restoration, or wear.
* **Provenance & Exhibition History:** Documented ownership and inclusion in gallery or museum shows.
* **Market Analysis:** Recent sales data for comparable works at auction and retail galleries.
Do I need to bring the artwork to you?
No, we will send a documentarian to you. We also can often conduct appraisals remotely using high-resolution photographs, detailed measurements, and documentation.
> **Tip:** If you are submitting photos, please include clear shots of the front, back, frame, and close-ups of any signatures, labels, or damaged areas.
Why would I need a formal appraisal?
There are several official situations where a certified appraisal is required or highly recommended:
* **Insurance:** To ensure your collection is properly covered against loss or damage.
* **Estate Planning & Probate:** For tax purposes, asset distribution, or stepping up the basis of an estate.
* **Charitable Donations:** The IRS requires a formal appraisal for non-cash charitable contributions valued over $5,000.
* **Equitable Distribution:** For divorces or business dissolutions.
Are your appraisals USPAP compliant?
Yes. All of our appraisal reports are written in strict accordance with the **Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)** and the code of ethics of major professional appraisal associations. This ensures our reports are legally binding and accepted by the IRS, courts, and insurance companies.
How much does an appraisal cost?
Fees are based on an **hourly rate or a flat per-item fee**, depending on the scope of the project and the amount of research required.
*Crucial Note:* We **never** charge a fee based on a percentage of the artwork’s value. Charging a percentage is a strict violation of professional ethics, as it creates a conflict of interest.
How long does the process take?
A standard appraisal typically takes **2 to 3 weeks** from the initial consultation and inspection to the delivery of the final report. Complex collections or pieces requiring extensive historical research may take longer. If you have an urgent deadline (such as a tax filing date), please let us know upfront.
What should I prepare for our first meeting?
To make the process as efficient as possible, please gather any paperwork you have related to the art, including:
* Original sales receipts or invoices
* Previous appraisals
* Certificates of authenticity
* Exhibition catalogs or family records regarding ownership history
How are you ranked?
We are one of the top art appraisers in the greater Boston and Miami markets with over 15 years of experience in the field.
- Who seeks your services for art valuations ?
1.Top estate lawyers in the Boston and Miami area.
2.Insurance agents seek our services for difficult art insurance claims.
3.High net worth individuals who need valuations for their collection.
Are you a member of an organization?
Yes, I am a long time member of the AAA,
Appraiser’s Association of America
and
A member of the New England Appraiser’s Group.
and
On the collection committee of the Danforth Museum.