Engagement terms
The public version of what every engagement letter says. The letter you sign governs; this page tells you what to expect before you send a message.
1. Messages
A message on Instagram or an email starts a conversation, not an engagement. We do not give opinions on value, authenticity or grade in messages. Work begins only after a written scope and quote, sent by email, and a signed engagement letter.
2. Scope and quote
The scope states what we will do, the intended use of the result, the fee and its basis, the timeline, and the limitations. Deposits, when required, are stated there. Cancellation before work begins costs nothing; work already performed is billed at the stated basis.
3. Fees
Every fee is flat or hourly and quoted in writing before work begins. Fees are never a percentage of the value of the property, and never contingent on a conclusion.
4. Independence
The practice holds no interest in any card it evaluates. It does not buy, sell, broker or consign cards, does not negotiate sales for clients, and never appraises a card it previously sold or buys a card it has appraised. Conflicts of interest are disclosed in every engagement letter, including this standing disclosure: the appraiser receives a profit-based fee from a trading-card retailer that is not a party to the engagement; that retailer receives no opinion-producing or custody service from the practice.
5. Opinions
An authentication opinion states the method used and is supported by photographs. It is a professional opinion, not a guarantee, and not a certificate of authenticity. “Inconclusive” is a legitimate finding.
6. Documentation
Condition is recorded as observed at the time and date stamped on the record. The practice does not predict or promise grades from any grading company. A pre-grade assessment is an opinion of a likely range.
7. Remote engagements
Remote work is based on photographs and video supplied by the client; a physical inspection was not performed, and the report says so.
8. Custody
Client property is logged from intake to return, kept in locked storage, shipped insured, and never commingled with anything the practice or its owner owns.
9. What the practice does not do
- Sell or broker insurance. We refer and document only.
- Hold funds or provide escrow. Grading fees are prepaid by the client.
- Lend or advance money.
- Buy, sell, broker or consign cards.
10. Standards
Written appraisals are prepared to USPAP standards. ISA designation candidate. USPAP is a standard for appraisal practice, not a licence or a credential; our written appraisals follow it so that they can be relied on.
11. Records
Recordings, photographs and workfiles are kept under the retention and consent policy.
12. Disputes
Raise a concern by email first; we answer in writing. The engagement letter states the governing law (Arizona) and the process that follows.
See how fees work, who the appraiser is, or start here.