Q1. What qualifies Finding Nostalgia as an appraiser to value my personal property?

A qualified personal property appraiser should have formal education in appraisal theory, principles, procedures, ethics, and law. They should be up-to-date on the latest appraisal standards. Continuing education and testing are the only ways to ensure this competence.

Q2. Do all appraisers have similar qualifications?

No. There are self-acclaimed personal property appraisers who have not completed any professional education. Obtaining a copy of an appraiser’s professional profile or resume can help evaluate the appraiser’s credentials.

Q3. How do you handle items that may be outside your specialty area?

No personal property appraiser should claim expertise in everything. The International Society of Appraisers (ISA) recognizes over 200 areas of specialty knowledge. Finding Nostalgia is focused on Vintage Sports Memorabilia. A good appraiser knows their limitations and is expected to consult with other experts when necessary.

Q4. How are fees calculated?

Do not hire a personal property appraiser who charges a percentage of the appraised value or charges a “contingency” fee. These practices are clearly conflicts of interest and may result in biased values. The IRS will not accept an appraisal done with such fee arrangements. Hourly fees are acceptable.

Q5. How will the appraisal report be delivered?

Finding Nostalgia supplies a formal, hardcopy reports via USPS as well as a PDF via email.

Q6. Do you take photographs of the items being appraised?

Yes. Either in person, or in some instances, clear and concise photos may be supplied by the client.

Q7. What is USPAP?

USPAP stands for the Universal Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and is the document developed by the Federal Government. The International Society of Appraisers (ISA) requires their members to certify that they write their appraisals to these standards.

Q8. Does the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) require recertification?

Yes. Members must recertify every five years through testing and providing professional development points.

Q9. Can a collectible have a differing value based on the need?

The function or what you are going to do with the appraisal report dictates the value being sought. For instance, the values may be different if you want to insure an item or if you want to sell that item in a short period of time.

Q10. Where do you find all of your Vintage Sports Memorabilia and Collectibles?

We, at Finding Nostalgia, are constantly scouring auctions, shows, flea markets, and various marketplaces. The joy is in the pursuit.