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| APPRAISALS OF ART AND PERSONAL PROPERTY http://stlucieappraisal.net/ |
When a customer calls to inquire about having something appraised, the first thing we ask is for what purpose is the appraisal being done. In fact, if you are planning to hire any appraiser, if he or she doesn't ask that question early on in the conversation, chances are you'll receive an incomplete or useless report. How does one go about finding a competent appraiser?
Is your appraiser licensed in the state where you live? In Florida, an appraiser may not perform any type of appraisal that pertains to insurance without an adjusters license from the State of Florida Department of Financial Services. The requirements read: Any person who undertakes on behalf of an insurer to ascertain and determine to amount of the claim, loss, or damage payable under an insurance contract or undertakes to effect settlement of such claim, loss or damage.
Most appraisers you'll find are not licensed, rather, they obtain credentials in other ways. A person must have a clean record, for instance, to obtain an adjusters license in all states. You'll find plenty of fraud in the world of auctions and appraisals and a conviction for such an offense disqualifies an appraiser from licensure. The American Society of Appraisers in Washington, D.C. is just one organization for appraisers. One need not be licensed in order to receive an ASA designation. After passing an examination, all you need is money - the annual dues are $560.00 after an initial payment of $565.00.
One important difference between a licensed appraiser and appraisers with other types of accreditations and certifications is that a licensed appraiser is held to higher standards, both ethically and professionally, by virtue of the fact that his or her license may be revoked. Conversely, the only way an accredited or certified appraiser can lose their designation is for failure to pay membership dues in a timely manner. In cases where expert testimony is given, judges and arbitrators recognize the legitimacy of licensure over other types of qualifications. Often, the outcome of legal decisions hinges on details such as these.
Have questions? We are always glad to help. In fact, we turn away more work than we take in after hearing some of the things people want appraised. We try to be fair and always strive to provide prompt, professional service to our customers.
APPRAISAL SERVICES FROM MIAMI TO MELBOURNE
The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net
