Appraisals
Written value opinions, USPAP, reports and timelines.A written appraisal is a value opinion with its purpose, its definition of value and its reasoning on paper. These notes cover what a report contains, the standard it follows, how long it takes and what it can and cannot be used for.
12 notes
What is a trading-card appraisal?
A written opinion of what your cards are worth, under a stated definition of value, for a stated purpose, as of a stated date, with the method and photographs that support it. It is signed and prepared to USPAP standards.
Long read
What is USPAP, and why does it matter?
USPAP is the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice: the rules for how an appraisal is scoped, researched, reported and kept on file. It is a standard, not a licence, and my written appraisals follow it so they can be relied on.
Long read
What are your appraisal credentials?
Written appraisals are prepared to USPAP standards. ISA designation candidate.
How is an appraisal different from a price check?
A price check is a number. An appraisal is a number with a purpose, a definition of value, a date, a method and a signature, so someone else can rely on it and check how it was reached.
Which kind of value does my report state?
The one that fits your purpose. Insurance usually needs replacement value, while estates and donations usually need fair market value. The report names the definition and its effective date so nobody has to guess.
Long read
What does an appraisal report include?
The scope of work, the intended use, the definition of value and its date, a description and photographs of each item, the method and data, the value opinion, and a signed certification with disclosures. It arrives as a PDF by email.
How long does an appraisal take?
Most single-item reports are delivered within a week of inspection. Collections get a timeline in the written scope, based on the item count.
Can you appraise a whole collection?
Yes. A collection report covers every item under one scope and one definition of value, priced as a flat fee tiered by item count, with a timeline stated in the scope.
Can you appraise cards that are already graded?
Yes. The grade and the certification number are part of the description, and the value still has to be researched and stated for your intended use.
Do you appraise sealed product?
Yes. Sealed boxes, cases and packs can be appraised like any other item. Because resealing is a real risk, I can pair the appraisal with a reseal verification so the value rests on a checked item.
Can I use your appraisal to sell my cards?
You can use it to decide whether and how to sell, and you can show it to a buyer. I will not sell the cards for you, make an offer or negotiate on your behalf.
Why pay for an appraisal instead of checking sold listings?
Sold listings tell you what some copies sold for. An appraisal tells you what your copy, in its observed condition, is worth for your purpose, and it gives you a document someone else will accept.
Appraisal
Want a written opinion on what your cards are worth?
A written appraisal states the value, the purpose and the reasoning, with photographs. Read about appraisals