WHAT DO WE APPRAISE?

In addition to our Core Services and generalist knowledge, we have professional experience in:

Item Research in all areas
Fakes, Frauds and Forgeries
Antiques and Collectibles
European works
Decorative Arts
Furniture

Artifacts
Residential and Business Content
Modern Design
Jewelry – Watches
Coins
Glass

If your item is not on the list please ask us and if we cannot assist you we most likely know someone who can.

We also collaborate with a wide array of specialists with niche expertise in their fields.

WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL?

An Appraisal as defined is “the act or process of developing an opinion of value”; an appraisal report is a written document that states an opinion of how much a property is specifically worth in a particular context.

A qualified appraiser conducts proper research, follows current appraisal methodology, and objectively reports the value conclusions. Thus, an appraisal provides useful information that can impact how the property is viewed and treated.

WHY DO YOU NEED AN APPRAISAL?

Simply put, a professional appraiser answers the question “What’s it worth?” The answer to this question is influenced by the intended use and objective of the appraisal.

Whenever there is a question about the value of your personal property, there is also a risk involved. It may be the risk of selling too low, or of paying too much; the risk of being under or over insured; the risk of not getting your fair share in a division of property; or the risk of incurring tax penalties or being audited when claiming a deduction for a charitable contribution or when calculating estate taxes.

A personal property appraiser helps you manage these and other such risks by providing a written opinion of value upon which you can base your financial decisions. Rather than being just an “educated guess,” the professional appraiser’s value conclusions are based on prescribed methods or evaluation, research, and report writing.

Bankers, financiers, investors, insurers, adjusters, estate managers, trustees, executors, attorneys, judges, and tax agencies are ALL dependent upon the knowledge and expertise of the personal property appraiser, and so should you be. Too often and usually too late, people find out that the appraisals they have are inaccurate or misleading, resulting not only in greater risk to themselves, but also in a waste of money.

WHAT ARE THE GENERAL STEPS OF AN APPRAISAL?

1. Initial Consultation

Before beginning the appraisal process, the appraiser will discuss with the client the scope of work and reason for the appraisal. During this information gathering phase, we determine who will be using the report and for what objective. From initial consultation to the final report, all client information will remain strictly confidential.

2. On-site Inspection (If required outside Portugal charges may apply)

After a preliminary discussion with the client, the appraiser will arrange for an on-site examination of the item(s) being appraised. The appraiser will photograph, measure, and examine each object or artwork. Please make available any documents (provenance, receipts, letters, restoration notes, etc.) pertaining to the items as this information can influence the value.

3. Research & Analysis

The appraiser researches object and market information pertaining to the property examined. Research conducted may involve verifying marks and labels (translating where possible), tracing provenance, comparing regional/artist stylistic traits, etc. The appraiser may also compile a list of comparable items and their selling history, investigate appropriate markets, and consult experts when necessary. An analysis of all relevant factors result in an accurate valuation to the best of the appraiser’s ability and available resources.

4. Development & Transmission of the Report

The appraisal report is then written in compliance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and Professional Appraiser Code of Conduct (PACC).. Two hard copies of the report are delivered to the client with electronic versions also available. The report includes an overview of the scope of work, value approach taken, definitions of value(s) used, and a list of items with descriptions, photographs, as well as the appraiser’s qualifications.

5 Appraisal Report Updates

It is highly recommended to update your appraisal report every three to five years. Fluctuations in the market may result in values varying due to changes in consumer demands, a shift in trends, and economic fluctuations. Certain markets, such as commodity-based collectibles, have the potential to alter in value significantly from year to year. Appraisal report updates are particularly useful for maintaining appropriate insurance coverage.

João & Co serves All of Portugal and the European Union

Final Reports will be issued in English and Native Language of Country of Origin

All other Countries outside the EU are by request only