What is your educational background in appraising?

Ms. Bell has completed the three core courses given by International Society of Appraisers (ISA). She has also completed advanced courses in report writing, methodology and expert witness testimony. She is a Certified Appraiser of Personal Property (CAPP) with the ISA in conjunction with Indiana University.

What are your areas of expertise?

Ms. Bell's area of expertise is appreciable residential contents and quilts. She has been in the antiques business since 1974.

Do you belong to any professional organizations?

Ms. Bell is a member of the International Society of Appraisers, the American Association of Appraisers, and the Professional Association of Appraisers-Quilted Textiles.

Do you work on a flat rate or an hourly fee?

We will accept assignments based on either method. An appraiser should never work on a percentage basis when doing a written appraisal.

back to top

What other costs are involved?

In addition to the agreed method of payment mentioned above, there are charges for all expenses incurred in the preparation of the appraisal. This includes long distance phone calls, travel time, film and developing costs, hotel or motel expenses, if necessary, and meals if staying overnight. In the case of an estate sale, cleanup expense is extra.

How can I determine if what I have is worth the expense of an appraiser?

We will gladly discuss with you the items you may need to have appraised, in order to determine if the expense is warranted. This requires a visual inspection at our regular hourly fee.

Do you have a written contract for both parties to sign?

Yes. It is important for everyone involved to understand the boundaries and limitations of the job to be undertaken. The contract spells this out, and there is less chance of a misunderstanding.

What can I expect to receive for the appraisal fee?

You can expect to receive a document that describes your personal property clearly and accurately and places a market value on the item. The market is determined by the function of an appraisal. The appraisal will include a cover letter, a transmittal letter, the appraiser's qualifications, and will be signed and dated by the appraiser.

Do you use consulting specialist in areas outside your field of expertise?

Yes, the appraiser should go to other sources when necessary. An antique dealer may not be qualified in residential contents or vice versa...just as a jeweler may not be qualified in gemstones.

back to top

Other Professional Resources

• Internet-based databases for substantial values
• Private library - one of the largest libraries in decorative arts in the Northwestern US Region.