Journal
Estate art appraisal for Palm Beach collections
South Florida estate work is fair market value for counsel, not a franchise shortlist.
An estate appraisal for a Palm Beach or South Florida collection states fair market value as of a date counsel supplies. Typical uses are estate planning while the owner is living, Form 706 estate tax after death, and equitable distribution among heirs or in divorce.
Why a local inspection matters
Works in a Palm Beach house, a Miami Beach apartment, and a New England house can sit in one engagement if they share purpose and date. This practice keeps a South Florida number at 786.581.7260 and a New England number at 508.577.7377. Staff can measure and photograph. The signing appraiser sets the method and certifies the opinion.
What the report is
A USPAP report: identification, condition, photographs, artist biographies, comparable sales with rationale, sources, and a signed certification. Fees are hourly or flat. A percentage of the estate is a conflict.
What it is not
This is estate appraisal work, not probate administration. National firms appear on unbranded Palm Beach shortlists because they have been written about more often. The assignment still has to match the collection, the date, and the definition of value.