Why My Appraisal Evaluation Is Unbiased, Thoughtful and Credible
Often after I complete a written appraisal, my clients ask: “How did you come up with the value of my antique….. ? I bought it twenty-five years ago for much more than the value you’ve placed on it.”
There's No Secret in My Appraisal Process
I am NOT pulling a number out of thin air when I tell you the value of your items. The values assigned for your home contents, antiques, paintings, silver, coins, jewelry and decorative art are credible and based on recent documented market sales data. But to my clients’ surprise and delight, it is often the painting I notice tucked behind the piano that has the highest value. I will tell you what is known and explain the market’s nuances for your collectibles.
USPAP Compliant
To maintain my professionalism, all of my appraisals are USPAP compliant. USPAP, the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, is a collection of generally accepted standards for professional appraisal practice. In my eyes, anyone calling themselves an appraiser should at least be USPAP compliant (even though some are not). I am accredited (tested in connoisseurship and appraisal science) by the American Society of Appraisers, the Appraisers Association of America, and the International Society of Appraisers, the three most well-respected appraisal organizations in the world. I have also been active on the ASA Northern NJ Chapter Board of Directors for a decade. For advanced education, I completed an NYU Appraisal Studies Certification. All appraisers must keep their designations current through a re-accreditation process that requires a minimum of 20 hours of education per year. I remain up-to-date on the most current movements in the marketplace by reading anything and everything related to the arts and antiques field, including auction results. I research and study, study, study!!
Trusted Relationships & Appraisals
Additionally, I’ve met and befriended gallerists, auction and museum specialists, and academics in the arts field and they answer my phone calls. My professional relationships are important to you, because it means YOU have access to the most current and relevant market information about your special and unique objects. A Magnusson appraisal draws upon all of this knowledge to give you the most credible evaluation of your property possible. Today’s marketplace is different than it was 20, 30 or even 50 years ago. Today’s appraisal will inform you of the most recent scholarship and sales results, in an unbiased manner. The fact of the matter is that few objects retain or increase in value over time. Most common objects are depreciable. However, the art and antiques market moves in cycles. My expertise of the current marketplace allows me to quickly discern your objects of high value. These collectibles may be sterling silver, Baccarat, vintage designer clothing, mid-century modern furniture, or a hundred other articles. My job is to find value and it’s often where YOU least expect it.
Now is the time to appraise your art, antiques, silver, jewelry, and collections. Schedule an appointment today by calling one of our specialists.
-Authored by Lynn Magnusson, ASA, AAA, ISA AM Edited by Heather Zises, Marketing Director
