Auto Appraiser FAQ's

Q. Why do I need to appraise my car? I know what it's worth.

A. A recent, professional appraisal of market value provides an un-biased opinion. This is required by institutions like banks, credit unions, insurance companies, etc. Accurate documentation of your cars value is valuable in many ways; to buy/sell, secure insurance coverage, loan collateral, resolve settlement disputes, provide documented value if your car is hit, etc.

Appraisals are often used in legal situations like, bankruptcy, divorce, IRS tax issues, charitable donations, and estates. Then there are issues like diminution of value, quality of repair, implied warranty, dealer misrepresentation, etc. in any of these, and many other situations, the recovery of a fair market value easily justifies the reasonable fees involved.

Q. How can you appraise my car without seeing it?

A. This is our number one question and can best be answered by the following excerpt from the "Letter From The President" dated 7/2/2001. Mr. David Maloney is President of the Association of On-Line Appraisers. Quote Mr. Maloney;

"While it is true that a personal inspection of the property is ideal, often it is not possible. Indeed even the traditional appraiser is often faced with preparing an appraisal report without having examined the property. Such would be the case if an item were stolen or lost in a fire. So, appraising property sight unseen is nothing new.

The on-line appraiser, just like the traditional appraiser, must recognize that the appraisal assignment is one being done based on 'limiting conditions'. Limiting conditions are circumstances or conditions that could effect the appraisal development process and, possibly, the appraisers opinions or analyses. The primary limiting condition with on-line appraisals is that the property is not available for inspection.

As does the traditional appraiser when valuing property that has been lost or stolen, the on-line appraiser bases value conclusions strictly on client provided information such as verbal or written descriptions, sketches, photographs, etc. basing a conclusion on such information requires the appraiser to be adequately satisfied that the information being provided is accurate". End of Quote

Q. How do I pay for your services?

A. We give you several options, including credit cards through Paypal, money orders or cashiers checks, (sorry no personal checks). These can be sent FedEx, overnight mail, or regular post.

Depending on your time frame, you can choose the method that serves you best.

Q. How long, after I submit my information, photos and payment, does it take for me to receive my appraisal?

A. Usually, depending on our work load, we are able to e-mail your appraisal within 48 hours. Most appraisals are completed on a "Next Day" basis. We make every effort to return your appraisal as quickly as possible. Naturally hard copies snail mailed take a few days.

Q. What experience/qualifications qualify you to appraise my car?

A. Almost 23 years in business appraising all makes and types of vehicles, 5 years on-line. Extensive experience as a "Court Tested" expert witness in auto related cases. Umpire/Arbitration experience, pre-purchase inspections throughout the Midwest. Appraiser to banks, credit unions, attorneys, insurance agents, museums, etc. Experience in restoration, performance modifications, customizing, body and paint, all types repair. Specialties include late models, classics, antiques, customs, street rods show cars, muscle cars, and replica 's (Kit cars). We have appraised everything from the "Batmobile" to antique Fire Engines.

Qualifications include:

• Certificate in Management - Creighton University 1986
• A.S.E. Certification in Engine and Brake Systems 1989
• Certificate in "Computer Command Control Systems"
• General Motors Training 1978 - 1983
• Past Licensed Auto Dealer
• Certificate "Vehicle Safety Inspector" State of Nebraska
• Advisor to Pontiac Owners Association
• Past Member Kidney Foundation "Car Campaign Committee"
• Registered Auto Expert "AskMe.com" Web Site
• Member "Association of On Line Appraisers"
• Member NADA Classic and Collectible Car Advisory Board

Reliable, honest automotive appraisal and legal consulting service is just a mouse click away!!!

E-mail or call us (402) 681-2968 today.
We can help!