What is a professional piano appraisal?

A professional piano appraisal is a formal opinion of value, prepared for a specific intended use and user, and supported by market research, condition analysis, and recognized valuation methodology.

Depending on purpose, an appraisal may be used for:

• Insurance coverage or claims

• Estate, probate, or trust administration

• Divorce or legal proceedings

• Non-cash charitable contributions

• Tax reporting and compliance

• Damage and loss assessment

Unlike informal opinions or online estimates, a professional appraisal is designed to be relied upon by third parties such as insurance companies, accountants, attorneys, and government agencies.

How are your appraisals different from online “appraisal” websites or dealer opinions?

Many online services, dealers, or technicians offer estimates or opinions, not appraisals.

A professional appraisal:

• Is a legal document

• Follows accepted valuation methodology

• Is prepared for a clearly defined purpose

• Can withstand review by insurers, accountants, IRS agents, and courts

I have been contacted by clients after paying for what they believed was an appraisal, only to have it rejected by an insurance provider or accountant because it failed to meet professional standards or the intended use.

In some cases, improper valuation has resulted in under-insurance — a problem only discovered after loss due to fire, flood, or transit damage.

Do I need a USPAP-compliant appraisal?

If your appraisal will be used for:

• Insurance coverage or claims

• IRS filings or charitable donations

• Estate, probate, or trust matters

• Divorce or litigation

Then yes, USPAP compliance is typically required or strongly expected.

USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) establishes ethical and performance standards for appraisers in the United States. Appraisers affiliated with the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) are required to comply with USPAP and complete ongoing update training as the standard evolves.

What if I’m just curious about what my piano might sell for?

If your interest is purely informational — for example, understanding a reasonable asking price — a lower-cost valuation consultation may be appropriate.

This type of service is not an appraisal and is not intended for insurance, tax, or legal use. It involves market research and discussion to help you understand realistic selling expectations.

If you’re unsure which service fits your needs, I’m happy to discuss options before any work begins.

Why can’t a piano technician or dealer just “appraise” my piano?

Piano technicians and dealers often have excellent knowledge of instruments, but technical knowledge alone does not qualify someone to perform a professional appraisal.

Appraisal work requires formal education in:

• Valuation theory and methodology

• Market research and analysis

• Ethics and professional responsibility

• Applicable laws and regulations

• Report writing for third-party reliance

A credible appraisal integrates both technical condition assessment and formal valuation standards. My background as a Registered Piano Technician and ASA-accredited appraiser allows me to provide both.

What is USPAP?

USPAP stands for the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.

Adopted by Congress in 1989, USPAP establishes the ethical and performance standards for appraisal services across multiple disciplines, including personal property (which includes musical instruments).

USPAP is updated every two years. Appraisers affiliated with organizations such as the American Society of Appraisers are required to complete continuing education to remain compliant as laws, regulations, and case law evolve.

What does “qualified appraiser” mean?

For IRS purposes, a qualified appraiser is an individual who has:

• Verifiable education in valuing the type of property appraised

• Completed professional or college-level coursework in valuation

• At least two years of experience valuing that type of property

(26 CFR § 1.170A-17)

I have completed the required coursework and training and meet the IRS definition of a qualified appraiser for personal property.

Personal property appraisers aren’t licensed like real estate appraisers — how do I know who is credible?

That’s an important question.

Because personal property appraisers are not state-licensed, credibility is established through:

• Documented formal appraisal education

• Professional ethics requirements

• Continuing education

• Affiliation with recognized appraisal organizations

A competent appraiser will be transparent about their qualifications and be affiliated with organizations such as the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), which enforces education, ethics, and peer accountability.

Are old pianos usually valuable?

Age alone does not determine value.

In fact, many older pianos have little or no market value due to:

• Obsolete construction methods

• Wear exceeding economic repair

• Lack of market demand

Sentimental value and monetary value are not the same. A professional appraisal evaluates market value, not personal attachment.

How long is an appraisal valid?

An appraisal reflects market conditions as of its effective date. Markets change over time.

For insurance purposes, appraisals should be reviewed periodically to ensure coverage reflects current replacement costs. Estate or tax appraisals are tied to specific dates and events.

How do I get started?

The first step is determining the intended use of the appraisal. From there, scope, methodology, and fees can be established appropriately.