BLADES Appraisals and Art Resources executes appraisals for estates, IRS tax-matters, donations, insurance, insurance claims and expert testimony. In addition, we consult on downsizing and brokering projects. Our appraisals are accomplished at the highest level, whether it is a simple task of providing a fair market value for an individual to divide their collection among their family or replacement costs for a large corporate collection.
We have over thirty years of experience appraising antiques, fine art , decorative art and residential contents. We work on a national and global basis, including research and analysis. We bring respect and knowledge to every situation, whether it is a large or small appraisal project. We maintain our training, qualifications and are certified to provide our clients with the latest in appraisal methodology and standards.
Our reports are easy to read, definitive in nature, and complete in scope. They are also compliant with the Appraisal Foundation’s Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), IRS regulations, as well as the standards and code of ethics set by The International Society of Appraisers (ISA).
When appropriate we work in tandem with other professionals, including attorneys, accountants, trust officers, adjusters, claim managers, experts and with our network of appraisers to offer guidance and analysis for unusual or complex valuation problems.
Qualified IRS appraisals for non-cash charitable contributions to museums and other tax-exempt organizations. Property for which a donation is claimed over $5000 must be appraised by a qualified appraiser. The appraiser must submit a self-contained fair market value appraisal that conforms to the IRS regulations along with the IRS with form 8283. For property appraised at or over $50,000.00 an 8 x 10 photograph is required to accompany the appraisal report.
Personal property can be gifted to individuals without tax under $13,000. Above that, taxes must be paid. In order to substantiate the value of the property, a qualified appraisal must be done. That’s another reason to call us.
For complicated insurance claims a comprehensive appraisal report will be required which employs the broad evidence rule. This approach uses a tier of values or costs that bear on the value of the property to assist insurance companies to determine the dollar amount to be paid out to the insured.
Natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, tornados, fires or man- made disasters like robbery or theft, often are not insured under your normal homeowner’s policy. If not, you may be able to deduct your loss from your income tax. In order to do this, you must obtain a qualified appraisal.
The value of personal property is often in dispute. Appraisers are hired to provide correct valuation for the settlements of those disputes, including divorce, claims, loss, negligence or fraud.
The first step of a legal action usually involves the appraisal, but other steps are often necessary including deposition, expert witness testimony and litigation support. We can offer suggestions pertaining to value in any aspect of the case. Often a case review will reveal the various strategies to prioritize assessment needs as well as identify the weakness and strengths in presentations.
Many corporations and private businesses have amassed assets held for enjoyment, investment, and historical significance. Whether it be paintings in the lobby, sculptures in the atrium, or private documents in archives, these items need careful documentation and protection.
Institutions providing loans collateralized by art require the most accurate valuations prepared by an unbiased expert.