
Appraisal Services
Appraisal services from Seasoned Life Transitions, Inc. are conducted professionally by Kim Lawrence, who is educated in antiques and collectibles from the Asheford Institute of Antiques and a member of the Asheford Associates Members Program (AAM). She is certified by PACC (Professional Appraiser Code of Conduct) and USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice).
Order an informal, desktop appraisal on an item here. You will get an emailed document that states information about the item and an estimated auction or retail value. The use of this estimate would be for personal use of the client only. Once the order of an appraisal is made, we will email you for photos and other important details of the property to be appraised. You will receive your appraisal and certification within 48 hours.
If you require a more detailed and full appraisal report for an intended use such as insurance, probate, or other situation, please contact us for a quote.
Most antique appraisers are qualified to do the job because THEY say they are qualified. It is not to say that the majority are not qualified. Practical experience alone does give one the ability to appraise value based on the changing price structure of their own industry. The difference in knowledgeable, professional, and accurate appraisals can vary greatly. People who specialize in a particular category may be very knowledgeable about their area of expertise, but outside that area could be problematic. A client also should consider whether the appraiser has any interest in the property being appraised. Unless bound by PACC or USPAP code of ethics, an appraiser may be biased in the valuation in order to acquire the property at a good price.
Insurance companies, law firms, and other similar clients desire an appraiser who is grounded in the fundamentals of antiques, knows real market value, can discern the difference between fakes and reproductions from the real McCoy, and has training & background to demonstrate these traits in a professional and ethical manner. When appraisers are certified with USPAP, they are bound by principles and standards that include a code of ethics, expectations of due diligence, and impartiality. They follow guidelines of reporting, procedures, and methods that are standard among fellow appraisers that is understandable by the client and other intended users.
Seasoned Life Transitions certifies all appraisals to these standards.