How to Choose an Antique Appraiser

Consult professional appraisal organizations. Societies that educate and accredit appraisers, like appraisers.org and The Appraisal Foundation, can be found online and have information on how to tell an accredited appraiser from one who is not. They also can give you a list of their members in your area.

Interview the appraiser. Ask him why he is qualified, and ask to see his certification paperwork. Determine his fee up front, and ask what that fee covers.

Make sure the fee includes a typewritten report including why the appraisal was performed, a detailed description of the item, and where and when the appraisal took place. The appraiser also should state in the report that he is not interested in any monetary gain from the antique piece he appraised. The report should be signed and list the appraiser's credentials and qualifications.

Understand what to avoid. First, never hire an appraiser whose fee is based on a percentage of the value of the item she is appraising. An appraiser's fees should depend on her hourly rate, her credentials and her experience in the field.

Never accept an appraisal report that is unsigned or handwritten. Make sure the appraiser is willing to stand by his appraisal if questions arise from, for example, an insurer, a buyer or the IRS. Avoid an appraiser who claims to be knowledgeable about all forms of antiques. A legitimate appraiser will not hesitate to consult an expert if she is not knowledgeable about the type of item being appraised.