10 questions to ask a personal property appraiser
By Jay MacDonald • Bankrate.com

Did you pick your appraiser based on a friend's recommendation? Maybe you thumbed through an antiques magazine and saw an ad that caught your eye. Or, most likely, you simply picked a person at random from the Yellow Pages.

Unlike real estate appraisers, most appraisers of personal property are not licensed. So how do you determine whether the person has the skill to give you a correct quote on your heirloom? The National Institute of Appraisers says these questions should help you determine whether the appraiser fits your needs:

1. What qualifies you to appraise my property? A pro will have formal education in appraisal theory, principles, procedures, ethics and law, as well as years of experience in his or her specialty.

2. Are you an accredited member of a professional society?

3. Have you been tested and passed a certification exam?

4. Do you take continuing education through your organization?

5. Do you buy or sell objects such as mine? If so, it could be a red flag for conflict of interest.

6. How much will your appraisal cost me? If the appraiser won't provide a written estimate, shop elsewhere.

7. How is your fee structured? It should be hourly or per piece, never a percentage of the appraisal.

8. What will I receive for my money? Ask for a detailed description of the appraisal report. Better yet, get copies of some recent appraisals.

9. How long will the appraisal take? Appraisals typically take anywhere from a week to a month.

10. Do you perform on-site instantaneous appraisals? Trick question. Run if they say yes.

Jay MacDonald is a contributing editor based in Mississippi.