Personal Property Appraisals in Seattle

• Estate & Probate – Fair Market Value for estate settlement and tax reporting.

• Insurance Coverage – Retail Replacement Value for scheduling valuable property or updating insurance policies.

• Charitable Donation – Qualified appraisals for IRS tax deduction purposes.

• Equitable Distribution & Divorce – Valuations for the fair division of personal property.

• Damage & Loss Claims – Documentation of value following theft, fire, water damage, or other loss.

• Resale & Market Advisory – Fair Market Value to assist with downsizing, liquidation, or selling collections.

• Gift Tax & Capital Gains – Valuations for tax planning and establishing cost basis.

• Personal Knowledge – For collectors, heirs, or anyone interested in understanding the value of their property.

Not every situation requires a formal appraisal report. If you're simply curious about the value of an item or considering selling it, we offer informal valuations that provide a professional opinion of current market value without the cost of a comprehensive written appraisal. These evaluations are intended for informational purposes only and are not suitable for insurance, estate, tax, or other official uses.

The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the assignment. Smaller projects may be completed within a week, while larger collections or research-intensive appraisals can take several weeks.

After discussing your needs and reviewing the scope of the project, you'll receive an estimated timeline before any work begins. Our priority is producing a thoroughly researched, well-supported appraisal rather than rushing the process.

As a generalist personal property appraiser, we can appraise nearly any tangible household property. This includes fine art, antiques, decorative arts, furniture, books, collectibles, silver, ceramics, glass, textiles, historical objects, and entire household contents.

While our practice has particular expertise in antiques, fine art, and decorative objects, we regularly appraise a wide range of personal property. If an assignment involves a highly specialized category outside our competency, we will gladly recommend a qualified specialist.

Not necessarily. Appraisals can often be completed either at our Seattle office or on-site at your home, business, or estate, depending on the nature and size of the assignment.

Smaller objects are often convenient to bring to us by appointment, while larger collections, furniture, or fragile items are typically best examined in place. We'll discuss the most appropriate option when scheduling your appraisal.

Absolutely. While JG Antiquary Co. is based in Seattle, we regularly work with clients throughout Washington and across the United States. On-site appraisal assignments outside the Seattle area are welcome and are subject to a travel fee based on distance and time.

If you're located outside the region, please get in touch to discuss your project and we'll be happy to provide a travel estimate.

While we do not act as a broker or sell items on behalf of clients, JG Antiquary Co. does accept a limited number of consignments for our gallery. We carefully select pieces that align with the focus of our shop, and accepted consignments are offered on a 50/50 consignment agreement.

If you have items you are considering consigning, we'd be happy to review photographs and discuss whether they may be a good fit for the gallery.

Every appraisal is unique, so fees are based on the scope of the assignment, the purpose of the appraisal, and the level of research required. After an initial consultation, you'll receive a written estimate before any work begins.

A sample average quote is:

• Single Item: Starting at $400

• Up to 10 Items: Typically $1,000–$2,000

• 10–20 Items: Typically $2,000–$4,000

• Large Collections & Estates: Custom Quote

Yes. Appraisal reports prepared by JG Antiquary Co. are developed in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), the recognized ethical and professional standards governing appraisal practice in the United States.

Our reports are prepared for their intended use and are suitable for a variety of purposes, including insurance coverage, estate planning and probate, equitable distribution, and IRS charitable donations. If your appraisal is needed for a specific legal, tax, or insurance matter, we'll ensure the report is prepared to meet the appropriate requirements.