In the world of professional appraisals, shortcuts come at a cost — and it’s usually yours. An appraisal can significantly impact your financial outcome. Yet, a disturbing trend continues to surface: the one-page appraisal. Let’s explore why they are unprofessional, unreliable, and unsafe.

In the world of art appraisal, trust is everything. Whether working with attorneys, museums, insurers, or estate planners, clients rely on appraisers not only for our knowledge and experience but for our integrity. The value we provide lies not just in the numbers we report, but in the professionalism, impartiality, and ethical rigor with which we approach every assignment.

As an accredited appraiser with the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), one of the most common questions I encounter is: “Why do appraisals cost so much?” It’s a fair question, especially when clients are unfamiliar with what goes into the process of valuing personal property, particularly fine art. The cost of an appraisal can feel significant, but understanding the rigorous work, expertise, and expenses involved can shed light on why these services are worth the investment.

The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) is much more than just a set of guidelines; it is the cornerstone of ethical and professional practice in the appraisal industry. Let's delve into what USPAP is, why it is important, and how it serves as a critical credential for appraisers, especially in an industry where there is no formal licensing for personal property appraisers.

Risk is always involved when there's a question about the value of your personal property – including fine art. By providing a written opinion of value upon which you can base your financial decisions, a professional appraiser can help you mitigate these and other such risks.

It is essential for clients to understand the ethical standards and professional guidelines that govern the appraisal industry. This understanding helps clients know what to expect from a reputable appraiser, ensuring that the service they receive is transparent, impartial, and in line with established industry standards.