Journal
Equitable distribution appraisals for art (not probate)
When a collection is divided among heirs or spouses, the appraisal gives impartial fair market values. It does not administer the estate.
An equitable-distribution appraisal states unbiased fair market values so heirs can divide a collection, or so spouses can divide what they acquired. It is not probate administration, and it is not an appointment as executor.
What the report is for
The definition is fair market value as of a date counsel supplies. The inspection is room by room. Comparables are explained. The fee is hourly or flat, never a percentage of the estate or of anyone share.
Impartiality
One sibling cannot hire the appraiser to keep the paintings modest. One spouse cannot hire the appraiser to inflate a collection for a better settlement. Which heir should receive which picture is not an appraisal question.
Testimony is a later engagement
If mediation or a civil proceeding needs testimony, that is scoped separately: the same opinion, explained, not enlarged. Fine art appraisers still do not run probate.