I provide formal art appraisals for insurance, estate, and legal matters, plus advisory support when clients want to sell art at auction. Most files start remotely from images, then move into research, valuation, and delivery of a written report. I guide clients on appraisal type and scope up front so the report is targeted to the intended use. After an initial call and image review, I will tell you if a formal appraisal is unlikely to be financially worthwhile for your case. If it does not make sense to proceed, I will let you know and there is no charge.
We first discuss scope, including number of pieces, appraisal type, and whether you prefer remote images or a site visit. I provide a no-charge estimate for the work before any billing begins. Research time is typically between 30 minutes and 4 hours per piece, depending on comparable sales availability. Works with strong auction records are often faster; works with limited public sales records may require additional research, including outreach to galleries for comparable data. I then compile the analysis into a report written to industry standards. The report itemizes each piece, lists the value, and explains the valuation with comparable sales support. Reports can be used in court, for fair distribution, for insurance, for estate files, or for tax-related purposes.
Small files are often completed in about one week once required information is in hand. Files with 10-25 pieces are often around two weeks. Appraisal work is billed at $225 / hr with a 1-hour minimum. For auction-sale management, the fee is typically 4% of hammer price and invoiced after proceeds are received.
Replacement value reports for private and corporate collections.
Fair market value reports for probate and estate distribution.
Donation and divorce valuation reports prepared to formal standards.
Detailed intake checklist, workflow, timelines, and pricing structure.
Sale strategy, consignment terms, and shipping/logistics management.