We offer general art valuation services including condition evaluations, object and artist research, market-based value opinions, and recommendations for selling, donating, conserving, and/or keeping your new acquisition. This guidance may be helpful in determining the range of value of one work of art or of an entire collection. Our knowledge of primary and secondary art markets, plus the art world and the factors that affect value, allow us to provide clients with well-researched valuation reports and art market intelligence. To get started, upload an image on our Contact page along with some basic information about yourself and the item. We’ll respond with an estimate of cost for a valuation report.

No, appraisers do not authenticate works of art. However, we make every effort to properly identify the appraised objects by reviewing client paperwork and by referencing catalogues raisonné and other appropriate research materials. In the event of uncertain authenticity, we can coordinate the authenticity process on behalf of a client or make recommendations. Artwork may be authenticated by recognized experts, an artist’s estate, a particular research foundation, or by others in the field.

Navigating the museum landscape and understanding collecting priorities and policies of various institutions is daunting. We offer guidance on finding the most appropriate beneficiary for your work of art or collection – which might include museums, universities, and/or hospitals. We’ll help you facilitate these donations and prepare works for acceptance by a receiving institution.

A variety of situations require an appraisal report, including insurance scheduling, loss of value, non-cash charitable donations valued at $5,000 and above, estate and gift tax, collection management, plus divorce and property division. We provide appraisal reports for the following purposes:

• Insurance Scheduling. To determine the Retail Replacement Value (RRV) of an artwork to ensure appropriate insurance coverage. RRV is the highest amount in terms of US dollars that would be required to replace a property with another of similar age, quality, origin, appearance, provenance, and condition within a reasonable length of time in an appropriate and relevant market. When applicable, sales and/or import tax, commissions, and/or premiums are included in this amount.

• Loss & Damage Claims. To determine the Retail Replacement Value (RRV) of artwork lost or damaged and/or diminution of value as a result of the damage.  Utilized to aid or facilitate insurance claims settlements.

• Non-cash Charitable Contribution. To determine the Fair Market Value (FMV) of artwork given to an accepting 501(c)3 non-profit organization or institution to establish the donor’s income tax deduction. Donations valued at $5,000 and above require a USPAP compliant appraisal. FMV is the value required by the IRS for tax evaluation purposes.  It is defined as “the price at which the property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or to sell and both having a reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.” It is sometimes referred to as “middle” or “secondary market value.” It is the value used for charitable deductions and estate taxes.

• Estate Planning & Tax Reporting. To determine the Fair Market Value (FMV) of artwork in connection with the preparation of estate tax returns, or to assist in estate planning, and/or in the distribution of assets.

• Divorce & Property Division. To determine the Fair Market Value (FMV) or Marketable Cash Value (MCV) of artwork in order to assist in the equitable distribution of property that is jointly owned by individuals, business associates, or corporations that may be changing ownership. MCV is the amount of money a willing seller realizes, net of expenses, after disposing of property in an open, competitive market to a willing buyer. The key phrase in this definition is “net of expenses,” meaning the final value is net of any sales commissions or fees that must be paid in conjunction with the sale of the property. These fees can include shipping, insurance, cleaning, framing, advertising, storage, and/or broker commissions.

Appraisal fees are based on a rate of $150 per hour, and correspond to the type and level of services rendered. There is a four-hour minimum for insurance appraisals and an eight-hour minimum for tax appraisals. For some assignments, a project-based fee is more appropriate. Charitable Contribution appraisals require extra time to prepare and an increased level of due diligence to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Estimates are based on the amount of time that we believe it will take to examine, evaluate, and research the property, and then to prepare the Appraisal Report. Appraisal fees are in no way related to the value of the item(s) being appraised. An engagement letter and written estimate are provided in advance. We charge an additional travel fee for locations outside Georgia.

Advisory fees are based on a rate of $150 per hour, and correspond to the type and level of services rendered. For some assignments, a project-based fee is more appropriate. Once the scope of work is determined, we’ll offer a written estimate with all services outlined and defined.