The Essential Guide to Estate Appraisal Services

Before you can decide how to sell items from an estate, you first need to understand their true value. Selling a rare collectible at a garage sale price is every family’s worst nightmare, and it happens more often than you’d think. An appraisal is your most important tool for preventing this. It provides a clear, market-based valuation that empowers you to make strategic decisions, whether that means holding an estate sale for household goods or consigning high-value pieces to a global auction. Our estate appraisal services are the essential first step in the liquidation process, giving you the knowledge to maximize the return on your assets and honor your loved one’s legacy.

Key Takeaways

• Understand Your Assets’ True Worth: An estate appraisal provides a formal, legally defensible valuation of your property. This is a necessary step for handling legal and financial matters like probate, tax filings, and ensuring a fair distribution of assets among heirs.
• Choose a Specialist for Your Items: The accuracy of your valuation depends on the appraiser’s expertise. Always select a certified professional with proven experience in your specific categories, whether it’s fine art, jewelry, or antiques, to ensure you receive a reliable assessment.
• Appraise Before You Sell: An appraisal is a crucial first step before liquidating any assets. This knowledge helps you set realistic prices, choose the best sales method, and avoid parting with a valuable item for a fraction of its actual worth.

What Is an Estate Appraisal?

An estate appraisal is a comprehensive evaluation to determine the total value of a person’s assets, often conducted after they’ve passed away or for planning purposes. Think of it as a detailed inventory and valuation of an entire estate, from the house itself to the art on the walls and the jewelry in a safe. A certified appraiser examines each item to determine its fair market value, which is the price it would likely sell for on the open market.

This process isn’t just for satisfying curiosity; it’s a crucial step for many legal and financial reasons. If you’re the representative of an estate, an appraisal provides the clear, unbiased valuations needed to settle debts, pay taxes, and distribute assets fairly among heirs. It can also be essential for estate planning, securing insurance, or dividing property during a divorce. The final appraisal report is an official document that provides a clear financial snapshot of the estate, bringing clarity to what can often be a complicated and emotional process. Our estate sales consultants can guide you through every step.

Appraising Personal Property

Personal property includes all the tangible, movable items within an estate, like furniture, antiques, fine art, collectibles, and jewelry. Figuring out the value of these belongings can be one of the most challenging parts of settling an estate. While a bank statement has a clear number, the worth of a vintage painting or a collection of rare coins is much harder to gauge. This is where a specialized appraiser becomes so important.

An expert in personal property can accurately assess the fair market value of these unique items. This ensures that every beneficiary receives their fair share and protects the estate representative from potential disputes. A professional appraisal gives you a defensible valuation if you decide to sell your antiques and collectibles, ensuring you get the best possible price.

Valuing Real Estate

Real estate, which includes the primary home, vacation properties, or undeveloped land, is often the most significant asset in an estate. A real estate appraisal is a formal assessment conducted by a certified property appraiser to determine the property’s current market value. This process is similar to the appraisal you’d get when buying or refinancing a home. The appraiser considers the property’s size, condition, location, and recent sales of comparable homes in the area.

For an estate, this valuation is a critical piece of the puzzle. It establishes a baseline value for tax purposes and ensures the property can be divided or sold equitably. An accurate real estate appraisal prevents the asset from being undervalued, which could shortchange the estate, or overvalued, which could lead to an inflated tax bill.

Appraisals for Legal and Tax Needs

When you’re managing a loved one’s estate, getting an accurate appraisal is one of your most important legal responsibilities. This isn’t just about good record-keeping; it’s a requirement for both the IRS and Florida’s probate courts. The appraisal report serves as the official documentation for the value of the estate’s assets, which is used to calculate any applicable estate taxes.

Having a professional, well-documented appraisal protects the estate and its beneficiaries from future complications. It minimizes the risk of an IRS audit and provides a clear, unbiased foundation for asset distribution, which can help prevent disagreements among family members. If you have questions about the appraisal requirements for your situation, it’s always best to contact us for professional guidance.

What Assets Can Be Included in an Estate Appraisal?

When you think of an estate, you might picture a grand house, but an estate is simply everything a person owns. An appraisal can cover nearly any asset that has value, from the family home to the collection of vintage posters in the attic. The process involves categorizing these items and determining their fair market value, which is a critical step for legal and financial planning.

Generally, assets fall into two main categories: real property (land and buildings) and tangible personal property. Tangible personal property, or TPP, refers to all the physical assets you can touch and move. This includes everything from furniture and cars to fine art and jewelry. Understanding what you have is the first step, and a professional appraisal brings clarity to the entire collection. If you have items you believe are valuable, you can start by learning how to sell your antiques & collectibles to get a sense of what the market looks for.

Fine Art, Antiques, and Collectibles

This is where a specialized appraiser truly shines. Items like paintings, sculptures, rare books, historical memorabilia, and antique furniture have values that aren’t always obvious. Their worth depends on factors like artist, age, condition, rarity, and provenance (the item’s history of ownership). An expert can identify details that a layperson might miss, uncovering significant value in what may seem like an ordinary object. These pieces of tangible personal property often require deep market knowledge to appraise accurately. You can see the incredible range of what people collect by exploring recent auction results.

Jewelry and Precious Metals

Jewelry, watches, gemstones, and precious metals like gold or silver bullion are common and often valuable parts of an estate. An appraiser will evaluate these items based on their materials, craftsmanship, designer or brand, and overall condition. A signed piece from a famous designer like Cartier or Tiffany & Co. will carry a premium, but even unsigned or broken jewelry has intrinsic value from its metal and stones. A certified appraiser can accurately assess both the artistic and material worth, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what your collection holds. If you have specific questions about your items, it’s always best to contact us for guidance.

Real Estate and Land

For many estates, real estate is the single largest asset. This includes the primary residence, vacation homes, rental properties, and even undeveloped land. As one legal expert notes, “Real estate often represents the largest probate asset where professional property valuations play an important role.” While our expertise at Lion & Unicorn is in personal property, a complete estate settlement will require a licensed real estate appraiser to determine the fair market value of any land or buildings. This valuation is essential for probate, tax filings, and equitable distribution among heirs. Understanding why Florida probate often needs estate appraisals can help you prepare for the process.

Business and Financial Assets

An estate isn’t limited to physical items. It can also include financial assets like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, as well as ownership stakes in a private business. Valuing a privately held company is a complex process that requires a specialized business appraiser who can analyze financial statements, market conditions, and other relevant factors. While this falls outside the scope of a typical personal property appraisal, it’s a crucial component of understanding the estate’s total worth. Our Estate Sales Consultants can help you coordinate with the right professionals to ensure every asset is properly valued.

When Should You Get an Estate Appraisal?

Knowing when to get an estate appraisal can feel confusing. It’s not just for settling a famous artist’s estate or for a dramatic scene in a movie. In reality, appraisals are practical steps for many of life’s biggest moments, from planning your legacy to navigating a divorce. Think of it as getting an official, documented answer to the question, “What is this actually worth?” This answer is often required for important legal, financial, and personal reasons. An appraisal provides a clear, defensible value for your assets, giving you the confidence to make sound decisions. Let’s walk through the most common situations where a certified appraisal isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

For Estate Planning and Inheritance

Proactive estate planning is a gift to your loved ones. Getting your valuables appraised now provides a clear, professional valuation that can prevent disagreements among heirs later. When you plan to sell your antiques and collectibles or pass them down, having a formal appraisal report establishes a baseline value. This helps ensure a fair distribution of assets and gives your family clarity during a difficult time. It’s about more than just money; it’s about making the inheritance process smoother and preserving family harmony by removing any guesswork about the value of sentimental and significant items.

To Meet Probate and Legal Requirements

When an estate goes into probate, the process is governed by strict legal rules. In Florida, the law requires the estate’s executor to create an inventory of all assets, listing their fair market value at the time of the owner’s passing. For unique items like art, antiques, or jewelry, a guess just won’t do. A certified appraisal provides the necessary documentation to satisfy the court. This formal valuation is critical for filing federal estate tax returns, handling potential sales from the estate, or resolving any disputes if a beneficiary contests the valuation. It’s a non-negotiable step for legal compliance and protecting the estate.

During Divorce Settlements

Dividing assets during a divorce is often emotionally and logistically complex. To ensure an equitable split, both parties need a clear and unbiased understanding of their shared property’s value. This is where a professional appraiser comes in. An appraisal provides an impartial valuation for everything from the family home to shared collections of fine art or jewelry. This is especially important for unique or custom items where the value isn’t obvious. A certified appraisal report serves as a neutral, factual document that can be used in mediation or court, helping to facilitate a fair settlement and allowing both parties to move forward with confidence.

For Tax Assessments and IRS Filings

A certified appraisal is your best defense against potential issues with the IRS. The government requires accurate valuations for several tax-related situations, including estate taxes, gift taxes, and deductions for charitable contributions. If you donate a valuable piece of art, for example, the IRS requires a qualified appraisal to substantiate its value. Similarly, when settling an estate, an appraisal provides the official valuation needed to accurately calculate and file estate taxes. Having this professional documentation protects you from penalties, audits, and legal challenges down the road, ensuring you meet your tax obligations correctly.

When Selling or Liquidating an Estate

Before you can sell or liquidate assets from an estate, you need to know what they are worth. An appraisal is the crucial first step in this process, providing a clear understanding of each item’s fair market value. This knowledge empowers you to set realistic prices, whether you’re planning an auction, an estate sale, or a private sale. For executors, this is an essential part of their fiduciary duty to maximize the estate’s value for its beneficiaries. Working with estate sales consultants who provide appraisal services ensures you have a solid strategy based on accurate, market-driven data.

To Secure Proper Insurance Coverage

Your standard homeowner’s insurance policy likely has limits that won’t cover the full value of your fine art, antiques, or jewelry collection. To properly protect these significant assets from theft, loss, or damage, you need to have them appraised. An appraisal report is the documentation insurance companies require to issue a separate policy or a special rider for high-value items. Keeping your appraisals up to date every few years ensures your coverage keeps pace with market fluctuations, so you can be confident that your most treasured possessions are adequately protected.

What Does a Certified Appraiser Do?

When you think of an appraiser, you might picture someone quickly assigning a price to an antique. In reality, a certified appraiser’s work is a detailed and disciplined process that goes far beyond a simple price tag. Their job is to provide an objective, well-researched, and legally sound valuation of personal property. This is a critical service whether you’re settling an estate, planning for the future, or preparing to sell your antiques and collectibles.

A certified appraiser acts as an impartial expert, combining deep knowledge with methodical investigation. They identify items, research their market value, and compile their findings into a formal report. This professional assessment is essential for everything from satisfying legal requirements in probate court to ensuring you receive a fair price at auction. Think of them as investigators who uncover the true story and value of your possessions, providing the clarity and confidence needed to make important financial decisions. Their work provides a solid foundation for the entire estate settlement or liquidation process.

The Process: Identifying and Cataloging Items

The first step an appraiser takes is creating a comprehensive inventory. This isn’t just a quick list; it’s a meticulous process of identifying and cataloging every single item. As an estate’s personal representative, you are responsible for all tangible property, and an appraiser helps you fulfill this duty accurately. They will carefully examine each piece, noting its age, condition, maker’s marks, and any unique characteristics or provenance. This detailed record is the foundation of the entire appraisal, ensuring that nothing is overlooked and that each item’s specific attributes are considered during the valuation phase.

The Research: Determining Fair Market Value

Once the inventory is complete, the real detective work begins. The appraiser uses the detailed catalog to research the fair market value for each item. This involves more than a quick online search. Certified appraisers consult specialized databases, review recent auction results, and use their expert knowledge of market trends to determine what a willing buyer would likely pay a willing seller. This process ensures the valuation is based on current, real-world data, not guesswork. The goal is to establish an objective value that reflects the item’s worth in the current market, which is crucial for legal and financial purposes.

The Result: Preparing the Appraisal Report

The final product of the appraiser’s work is the appraisal report. This is a formal, legally defensible document that clearly outlines the appraiser’s findings. It includes a detailed description of each item, the valuation methodology used, and the final assigned value. This report is essential for legal and financial matters, as it provides clear, impartial evidence of an asset’s worth. An accurate and professionally prepared report protects the estate, its heirs, and its representatives from potential tax penalties, legal challenges, and disputes, providing a transparent and authoritative record of the property’s value.

Why Documentation Matters for an Accurate Valuation

Proper documentation isn’t just good practice; it’s often a legal necessity. Florida law, for example, requires a detailed inventory that lists each probate asset with its fair market value. A professional appraisal provides this crucial documentation. This formal report is indispensable for filing federal estate tax returns, justifying prices during a sale, or resolving disputes among beneficiaries. By working with our estate sales consultants, you ensure that every valuation is supported by thorough research and a detailed report, giving you the confidence that you are meeting all legal obligations and protecting the estate’s interests.

Estate Appraisal vs. Estate Sale: What’s the Difference?

If you’re managing an estate, you’ve likely heard the terms “appraisal” and “estate sale” used together. It’s easy to confuse them, but they represent two very different, yet equally important, parts of the process. Understanding the distinction is the first step toward making informed decisions for your family and the assets you’re handling. At its core, the difference is simple: an appraisal determines value, while a sale liquidates assets.

An estate appraisal is a formal, professional valuation that determines the fair market value of personal property. A certified appraiser inspects each item, from fine art and jewelry to antique furniture and collectibles, and conducts thorough research to assign an accurate monetary value. This isn’t a quick estimate; it’s a detailed report needed for legal and financial reasons, like settling probate, filing taxes, securing insurance, or ensuring an equitable distribution of assets among heirs. The appraisal provides the crucial, documented information you need to know exactly what you have.

An estate sale, on the other hand, is the event designed to sell the contents of a home to the public. It’s a method of liquidation, often held on-site over a few days. The goal of an estate sale is to sell a large volume of items quickly. While it’s an effective way to clear a house, it’s a very different process from an auction, where individual items are presented to a competitive bidding audience.

Think of it this way: the appraisal is the homework, and the sale is the final exam. A proper appraisal should always come first. Without it, you risk selling a rare collectible for a fraction of its worth. Once you have a certified appraisal, you can work with experts to decide the best path forward. Some items may be perfect for an estate sale, while more significant pieces might achieve a far better price through a targeted auction with a global reach.

Common Myths About Estate Appraisals

When you’re dealing with an estate, the appraisal process can seem mysterious. A lot of what people think they know about appraisals comes from TV shows or hearsay, and these misconceptions can cause real confusion. Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths so you can move forward with confidence.

Myth: Appraised Value Equals Market Value

It’s easy to assume that the value on an appraisal report is the exact amount of money you’ll get for an item, but that’s not quite how it works. An appraised value is an expert’s researched opinion of worth for a specific purpose, like insurance or tax filing. Market value, on the other hand, is what an item actually sells for in a real-world transaction. Think of it as the difference between a home’s appraised value and the final price it sells for after negotiations. The market can be influenced by timing, buyer demand, and where the item is sold. The best way to see market value in action is to look at what similar items have recently sold for at auction. You can explore recent auction results to get a feel for what collectors are paying right now.

Myth: Assessed Value Is the Same as Appraised Value

This is a particularly common point of confusion, especially when real estate is involved. The assessed value is a number used by local governments strictly for calculating property taxes. It’s often determined by a formula and may not have been updated in years, so it rarely reflects an asset’s true, current worth. Relying on an assessed value to price an antique, a piece of art, or even a home for sale would be a major mistake. For an accurate understanding of what your items are worth, you need a formal appraisal from a qualified professional before you sell your antiques and collectibles.

Myth: Any Appraiser Will Do

Appraisal is a field of specialists. You wouldn’t ask a foot doctor to perform heart surgery, and the same principle applies here. The appraiser who specializes in modern art may not have the specific knowledge to accurately value a collection of Civil War memorabilia. Choosing the right appraiser is critical. You need someone with documented expertise in your specific category of items, whether it’s fine jewelry, antique furniture, or rare books. A qualified professional provides not just a number but a detailed, well-researched report that can stand up to scrutiny from the IRS or in a court of law. Working with experienced estate sales consultants ensures you have the right expert for every item in your collection.

What to Look for in a Certified Estate Appraiser

Finding the right person to appraise an estate can feel like a big task, but knowing what to look for makes all the difference. The appraiser you choose directly impacts the accuracy of your valuation, which is the foundation for everything that follows, from estate planning to selling items at auction. To make sure you’re working with a true professional, focus on a few key qualifications: their credentials, specializations, and their history in the business. These factors separate the experts from the amateurs and ensure you receive a valuation you can trust.

State Licensing and Accreditation

First things first, check for proper licensing. While requirements can vary by state, an appraiser handling real estate for official purposes like bank loans absolutely must have a state license or certification. For personal property, like art and collectibles, licensing isn’t always mandatory, but it’s a strong indicator of professionalism. A licensed appraiser is held to specific legal and ethical standards, which gives you an essential layer of protection and peace of mind. It confirms they have met the baseline requirements for knowledge and conduct in their field, ensuring a more reliable and accountable process from the start.

Specialized Certifications

Beyond a state license, look for appraisers who hold specialized certifications from respected industry organizations. These credentials show that an appraiser has gone the extra mile to become an expert in a particular area, whether it’s fine art, antique furniture, or rare coins. For example, designations from groups like the Appraisers Association of America (AAA) or the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) indicate a commitment to ongoing education and high ethical standards. Choosing an appraiser with a specialty relevant to your items ensures they have the deep knowledge needed to identify subtle details that can significantly affect value.

Proven Experience and Expertise

Experience is not just about the number of years an appraiser has been in business; it’s about the quality and relevance of that experience. A firm with a long history has likely handled a wide variety of estates and has a deep understanding of market fluctuations. They can provide accurate, objective, and timely work backed by a solid reputation. You can often see this expertise reflected in their past auction results, which showcase their ability to accurately value items and achieve strong sales. When you sell your antiques and collectibles, this proven track record is your assurance that your valuables are in capable hands.

How Much Does an Estate Appraisal Cost?

One of the first questions people have is about the cost of an estate appraisal, and the honest answer is: it depends. While a basic home appraisal might fall between $350 and $700, a comprehensive estate appraisal that includes personal property like art, antiques, and jewelry is a different and more involved process. The final price tag is influenced by the size of your estate, the complexity of the items involved, and the appraiser’s specific expertise.

Think of it less as a flat fee and more as an investment in understanding the true value of your assets. Professional appraisers often charge an hourly rate or a project-based fee that reflects the amount of work required. This cost covers not just the on-site inspection but also the extensive research needed to determine accurate, fair market values for each item. The result is a detailed, official report that can be used for legal, tax, or sales purposes. The best way to get a clear idea of the cost for your specific needs is to contact us for a consultation, where we can discuss the scope of your collection.

What Affects the Price of an Appraisal?

Several key factors determine the final cost of an appraisal. The first is the sheer size and scope of the collection. Appraising a handful of items will naturally cost less than evaluating an entire household filled with furniture, art, and collectibles. Location can also play a role, especially if significant travel is required for the appraiser.

The complexity of the items is another major consideration. A collection of rare coins or historical documents requires a different level of expertise and far more research than more common household goods. The purpose of the appraisal matters, too. A report prepared for an IRS filing or a divorce settlement often requires more detailed documentation than one for personal planning. Our estate sales consultants are experienced in handling these complexities and can provide clarity on what your specific situation requires.

How Long Does the Appraisal Process Take?

The timeline for an estate appraisal can range from a few days to several weeks. The initial on-site visit, where the appraiser inspects and catalogs your items, might only take a few hours. However, the real work happens afterward. This is when the appraiser conducts thorough research to accurately value each piece, which involves consulting databases, auction records, and other market resources.

A straightforward appraisal of a few well-documented items could be completed relatively quickly. In contrast, a large estate with diverse and unique assets will require a longer, more meticulous process to ensure every valuation is accurate and defensible. The appraiser’s current schedule can also influence the turnaround time. We always aim to provide a clear timeline upfront so you know exactly what to expect as you prepare to sell your antiques and collectibles.

How to Find a Reputable Estate Appraiser in Florida

Finding the right appraiser in Florida feels like a big decision, because it is. You’re entrusting someone with the task of valuing items that hold both monetary and sentimental worth. The key is to find a professional who is not only qualified but also a good fit for your specific needs. By asking the right questions and knowing what to look out for, you can confidently choose an appraiser who will provide an accurate and fair valuation for your estate.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

When you’re the personal representative for an estate, determining the fair market value of inherited assets is one of your most important duties. Before hiring an appraiser, ask about their credentials, specifically their certifications and experience with items similar to yours. Inquire about their valuation methodology and how they document their findings. It’s also wise to ask for references from past clients, particularly other estate representatives or attorneys. A clear fee structure is also essential, so ask if they charge by the hour or a flat rate. Finally, discuss your specific situation to clarify which assets require a formal appraisal, as it may not be necessary for every single item in the estate.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of any appraiser who gives you a quote over the phone without seeing the items or who offers to buy the items they are appraising, as this is a major conflict of interest. A vague or unclear valuation process is another warning sign. An expert should be able to clearly explain their methods. If an appraiser seems hesitant or unsure about valuing certain types of tangible personal property, it could indicate a lack of specialized expertise. True professionals, like the team at Lion & Unicorn, have deep knowledge across various categories, from fine art to historical memorabilia. If something feels off, it’s always best to trust your gut and contact a different expert for a second opinion.

Get Started with Lion & Unicorn’s Appraisal Services

Taking the first step toward an estate appraisal can feel like a huge task, but you don’t have to do it alone. With over 30 years of experience helping families and individuals in Florida, we’ve streamlined the process to be as clear and supportive as possible. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make confident decisions about your valuables, whether you’re settling an estate, planning for the future, or simply curious about what your collection is worth. We are here to guide you through every step with care and expertise.

Our certified appraisers are trained experts who provide accurate, unbiased valuations. They conduct a thorough inspection of your property, carefully analyzing the details of each piece and researching the current market to determine a fair value. We know that every collection is unique, and factors like an item’s condition, rarity, and history all play a part in its final assessment. This comprehensive evaluation is the foundation for understanding what you own, which is essential before you decide to sell your antiques and collectibles.

It’s also helpful to understand that an appraised value reflects an item’s worth based on specific criteria; it isn’t always the same as its final sale price at auction. Think of the appraisal as the most important piece of information you can have. It empowers you to secure proper insurance, divide assets fairly, or enter the market with a realistic perspective. You can see what similar items have achieved by exploring our past auction results. When you’re ready to begin, the best way to start is by having a simple conversation with our team. Contact us today, and we can answer your initial questions and schedule a consultation.

Related Articles

• Appraisals Archives | Lion & Unicorn
• How to Handle an Inherited Estate | Liquidation Guide
• How Does An Estate Sale Work? | Lion & Unicorn
• How to Price Items For An Estate Sale? | Lion & Unicorn
• How to Get Antiques Appraised | Cost & Process Guide (2026)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get every single item in the house appraised? Not necessarily. The goal is to focus on items that likely have significant value, not to catalog every kitchen fork. A good first step is to do a general walkthrough and set aside anything you believe might be valuable, such as fine art, jewelry, antique furniture, or large collections. When you consult with an appraiser, they can help you identify which items warrant a formal valuation for legal or tax purposes and which can be grouped together as general household contents.

How should I prepare for the appraiser’s visit? The best thing you can do is gather any documentation you have related to your valuable items. This could include previous receipts, certificates of authenticity, or any family stories about an item’s history. It’s also helpful to make sure the items are easily accessible, but please don’t clean or try to repair them beforehand. Sometimes, the original patina on an antique is a crucial part of its value, and amateur cleaning can cause unintentional damage. Just organize what you can, and let the appraiser handle the expert assessment.

Is the appraised value the same amount I’ll get if I sell the item? Not always, and it’s an important distinction to understand. An appraisal provides a formal valuation for a specific purpose, like insurance coverage or an estate tax filing. This value is based on extensive research and market data. The final selling price, however, is determined by the current market at the moment of sale. Factors like buyer demand and the selling venue can cause the final price to be higher or lower than the appraisal. The appraisal gives you a crucial, educated baseline, not a guaranteed price tag.

Why can’t I just look up values online myself? Doing a quick online search can give you a general idea, but it can also be very misleading and won’t hold up for any legal or tax purposes. An online listing is not the same as a certified valuation. A professional appraiser considers an item’s condition, provenance, and subtle details that online searches can’t account for. Their final report is a legally defensible document based on specialized databases and professional expertise, which is something a printout from a website can never be.

What happens after the appraisal is done? Once you have the formal appraisal report, you have a clear and documented understanding of your assets’ value. This empowers you to take the next steps with confidence. You can use the report to secure insurance, divide property among heirs, or file necessary tax documents. If your goal is to sell, the appraisal helps you and your consultant decide the best strategy, whether that means placing specific items in a global auction or holding a local estate sale.