Appraisals Guide
Everything you need to know about getting accurate appraisals for your valuable items. Ready to go? Try our free online antique appraisal.
How InstAppraisal Works
Our cutting-edge AI technology analyzes your items using millions of data points from auction houses, dealers, and sales records to provide instant, accurate valuations.
1. Upload Photos
Take clear photos of your item from multiple angles, including any marks, signatures, or damage.
2. Add Details
Provide information about your item's history, condition, and any known provenance.
3. AI Analysis
Our AI instantly analyzes your item against millions of comparable sales and market data.
4. Get Valuation
Receive a detailed report with market value, comparables, and expert insights.
Types of Appraisals
🎯 Fair Market Value
The price an item would sell for on the open market between a willing buyer and seller. This is our standard appraisal type.
- Best for: General knowledge, estate planning
- Based on: Recent auction results and sales
- Accuracy: ±15% of actual market value
🏪 Retail Replacement Value
The cost to replace an item with a similar one from a retail source. Usually higher than fair market value.
- Best for: Insurance purposes
- Based on: Current retail prices
- Note: May be 2-3x fair market value
⚡ Quick Sale Value
The price you might expect in a quick sale situation, typically 60-80% of fair market value.
- Best for: Estate liquidation, quick sales
- Based on: Wholesale and dealer prices
- Note: Lower than fair market value
Photo Guidelines for Accurate Appraisals
Essential Photos to Include
Overall Front View
Clear, well-lit photo showing the entire item
Back/Reverse
Important for paintings, furniture, and textiles
Signatures/Marks
Close-ups of maker's marks, hallmarks, or signatures
Detail Shots
Unique features, decorations, or craftsmanship
Condition Issues
Any damage, repairs, or wear
Size Reference
Include a ruler or common object for scale
Photography Best Practices
- Lighting: Use natural daylight or bright, even lighting. Avoid flash.
- Background: Use a plain, contrasting background (white or black).
- Focus: Ensure photos are sharp and in focus. Use macro mode for details.
- Angles: Take photos straight-on, not at an angle.
- File Size: Higher resolution is better (up to 10MB per image).
- Quantity: 3-6 photos minimum, more for complex items.
Understanding Your Appraisal Report
📋 Item Description
Professional cataloging of your item including:
- Type and category
- Materials and techniques
- Approximate age or period
- Style and origin
- Condition assessment
💰 Valuation
Market value estimate including:
- Fair market value range
- Confidence level
- Market trends
- Regional variations
- Factors affecting value
📈 Market Analysis
Comparable sales and market data:
- Recent auction results
- Similar items sold
- Price history and trends
- Market demand indicators
- Collector interest level
💡 Expert Insights
Additional valuable information:
- Historical significance
- Maker or artist information
- Collectibility factors
- Care and preservation tips
- Selling recommendations
Accuracy and Limitations
✅ What Our Appraisals Are Good For
- General market value estimates
- Insurance documentation (verify with your insurer)
- Estate planning and division
- Buying and selling decisions
- Collection management
- Educational purposes
⚠️ Important Limitations
- Not a substitute for in-person examination
- Cannot detect forgeries with 100% certainty
- May not capture subtle condition issues
- Regional market variations may apply
- Not accepted for IRS donations over $5,000
- Should be verified for legal purposes
Note: For high-value items, legal purposes, or significant financial decisions, we recommend supplementing our AI appraisal with an in-person evaluation by a certified appraiser.
Tips for Getting the Best Appraisal
🧹 Clean Your Item
Gently clean your item before photographing, but don't over-clean antiques as patina can add value.
📚 Research First
Gather any documentation, receipts, or provenance information you have about the item.
📝 Be Detailed
Include all known information about maker, age, history, and any restoration or repairs.
📐 Include Dimensions
Provide accurate measurements - height, width, depth, and weight when relevant.
🔍 Check for Marks
Look carefully for maker's marks, stamps, labels, or signatures - these greatly affect value.
💬 Ask the Community
For unique items, consider posting in our forums for additional expert opinions.
Ready to Get Your Appraisal?
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