It is always best to share the following information to help facilitate expenses and time:
- What is the purpose of the report?
- What is the intended use of the appraisal?
- Which items are involved, and what is their location?
- What is the level of documentation required?
To prepare for your appraisal:
- Gather documentation. This may include sales receipts, certificates, past appraisals, letters, or other authentication.
- Have items ready, unlocked, and available. If items are part of a set, like candlesticks or silverware, have them grouped together.
- Clean the items. To ensure an accurate inspection and successful photography, it is important to remove any dust or dirt that may be obscuring the item.
- For an appraisal involving furniture, if possible, pull it away from the wall to allow better inspection.
An appraisal that is done thoroughly and without interruption helps both the client and the appraiser.