How much is an appraisal fee in NY?

Personal property appraisal fees in New York are set as a fixed fee for the engagement, based on the scope of the assignment rather than an hourly rate or a percentage of value.

We quote each appraisal after reviewing what you need appraised: the number of items, the complexity of the collection (fine art and jewelry generally require more research than household furnishings), the completeness of your records and provenance documentation, and the intended use of the report. A personal property appraisal prepared for an IRS-qualified purpose, such as an estate tax filing (Form 706) or a charitable donation over $5,000 (Form 8283), typically requires more detailed analysis and documentation than an appraisal for general insurance scheduling, which can affect the fee.

A few points worth understanding before you request pricing:

• Fixed fee, not hourly. You'll know the cost before work begins; there's no hourly billing or open-ended invoice.
• Value doesn't set the price. A high-value painting and a moderately valued one can cost the same to appraise if the research involved is similar; it's the work required, not the item's worth, that drives the fee.
• Online appraisals are typically more efficient for most household items, collectibles, and single pieces of art or furniture, which can help keep costs down compared to an on-site visit. On-site appraisals remain available for larger estates or more complex collections.

The most accurate way to get a number for your specific situation is to describe what you're having appraised and why. You can start that conversation by requesting an appraisal, and we'll confirm scope and cost before any work begins.