I put $60,000 in my restoration, isn’t that what my car’s value is?
  Unfortunately no! The value of your car is based on the condition and the current market value and demand. The condition determines the value so an excellent restoration will have a higher condition rating and therefor be worth more. Don’t be discouraged because the financial investment can make a big difference to a potential buyer. This is only true if it is documented. It’s not the amount of dollars spent but how the investment increases the vehicle’s desirability. To some buyers a beautiful purple metallic paint job may be just what they wanted and other buyers who are looking for originality only, the paint decreases the value in their mind. The value of your car is based most on what someone will pay for it. Sometimes you can recover all or most of your investment but for example putting $60,000 into a car that has a market value of $10,000, you will not recoup your investment. The real key is if you enjoy the car. Nothing is more important. I’ve seen many cars that the money spent will never be recovered BUT the owner loves his/her car and drives it often, Having a Certified Vehicle Appraisal that includes the listing of documented investment will help you to potentially get a higher price from the “right” buyer.
 

Why do I see some appraisers have licenses and other do not?
   At this time, we are unaware of any state that requires a license to perform any type of value appraisal. Some appraisers that publish that they are licensed are actually claims adjusters serving the insurance industry. Claims adjusters/appraisers do have to be licensed. The key point for you to know is that having a license for claims, does not indicate any expertise or experience in valuation appraisals of antique and collector vehicles. They are more familiar with late model cars and the cost to repair them. Certified Vehicle Appraisers only do valuation appraisals and are active in the hobby. They have some of the same type of cars you do, are active locally in car show and cruise-ins, are members of national organizations and car clubs and are often National Judges for the Antique Car Club of America.
 

What are the questions I should ask when choosing an appraiser?
  Anyone can “claim” to be an appraiser. There are certain qualifications you should look for. These include but are not limited to:

1. What is the appraiser’s experience in doing appraisals?
2. Is the appraiser active in the hobby?
3. Is there any possibility that a conflict of interest could be claimed by the insurance company?
4. Is the appraiser an active judge in major shows and meets?
5. Will the appraiser stand behind the appraisal is it is challenged by the insurance company or in court?
6. Look at a sample appraisal. How detailed is it and the pictures taken? does it look professional?
7. Is the appraiser a member of a national appraisers organization with additional resources available?
8. Does the appraiser do any work (appraisals or damage claims) for any insurance companies?
9. Is the appraiser familiar with your particular vehicle and if not, where would he/she get the data needed to do a proper valuation?

If you answer “no” to any of the above, look around for another appraiser.