the appraisal of an object is based upon a proper scope of work,

and the appraiser's object and market knowledge and experience

An appraisal is an objective, impartial, unbiased, reasoned opinion of value by a competent, ethical and qualified appraiser. It requires an understanding of the client's appraisal problem, the subject objects and an analysis of equivalent objects in the relevant marketplace. A formally written appraisal report is a signed document suitable for submission to insurance companies, the courts, the Internal Revenue Service and all private clients. All appraisals should comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

There are no free appraisals.

Novotny will properly understand your appraisal problem. He will determine (and execute) the necessary scope of work. His appraisal report will address the requirements of your intended use and will meet the needs of intended users. He will answer the valuation questions that you posed. He will be diligent, but not do more than necessary to establish a credible basis.

BACKGROUND: Valuation knowledge and experience matter. Novotny's education, training, past research, daily study and over thirty years of market experience in antiques and personal property prepare him to serve your appraisal needs. In-depth knowledge of the theory, methods and standards of appraisal practice allows Novotny to identify and solve your appraisal problem efficiently, cost effectively and credibly. Knowledge and experience results in increased credibility and reduced billable time. Contact Novotny now to solve your valuation problem.

Property Types Appraised

European and American Antiques
Historic/Contemporary objects
Furniture, Decorative Art, Fine Art and Folk Art
Collectibles, Glass, Ceramics, Metals, Lighting
Textiles, Ephemera, Books, Rugs & Carpets
Native American Objects, Asian Objects
Vinyl Records (33, 45, & 78 RPM)

Depreciating Residential Contents:
Used Furniture, Appliances, General Personal Property
(Expert consultations are arranged as necessary for specialized property types)

Learn more about the property types appraised by Novotny

Assignment Types and Intended Uses:

Litigation Support
Expert WitnessTestimony:
Deposition and Trial,
Litigation Support,

IRS Tax Appraisals

Trust and Probate

Acquiring Insurance
Damage Claims Settlement

Dissolution of Marriage
Equitable Distribution
Estate Planning
Inventory Documentation
Sales/Purchase Advisory
Down-sizing Consultations

Appraisal Review

Learn more about the types of assignments or intended uses for an appraisal.

Oral Reports
Many household contents can be valued on site, quickly, orally, and with minimum or no research. Novotny can value many ordinary household objects at 50-100 items per hour and remain USPAP compliant. He can also find, identify and value many rare and valuable objects which would likely require significant research. Intended use and the needs of the client determine whether an oral report is appropriate. Some distant appraisal assignments are accepted based on digital photos and descriptions.

SERVICE AREA: Nationwide, Southern California, Los Angeles and Orange County.

Contact Novotny now to solve your valuation problem.

Other Services: Estate Sale Agent

Onsite sale of personal property, antiques, household and residential contents

Novotny is an AQB Certified USPAP Instructor who teaches the 15 Hour National USPAP Class and 7-Hour USPAP Update Class. Novotny was the first personal property appraiser in the USA to achieve this important certification. William Novotny was Certified (#10138) in 2002 and is currently certified until 2012. He has taught USPAP courses yearly since 1998 including for ASA regional Chapters, the International Society of Appraisers, (ISA), ANA and the College For Appraisers. He has presented USPAP classes in Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Dallas, Baltimore and Chicago.

Compliance with USPAP is necessary to establish a basis for trust between the appraiser and the client. There must be a basis for credibility so that the client can have a reason to place their trust in the appraiser.

BEWARE: Personal property appraisers are not licensed or regulated in California. Any person can represent that they are an appraiser. Many individuals that represent themselves as appraisers are not members of professional appraisal associations or societies and have not been vetted. Many are not aware of the minimum standards such as USPAP. Many have not been trained in appraisal theory, methods and techniques. There are many people who have knowledge regarding the value of object. Such object knowledge is not sufficient and does not qualify them as a professional appraisers. Check credentials carefully before hiring an appraiser.