If you have never sought out car appraisal services in Maryland, you might have some questions about how the process works, and why you need it. Whether your insurance company has asked for an appraisal or you just want to know how much your classic ride is worth, a car appraisal can be very enlightening and helpful — but only if it is done in a thorough and legitimate manner.
Here at Jane Campbell-Chambliss & Associates, LLC, we have proudly performed numerous car appraisals for our valued customers. While car appraisal services in Maryland are now second nature to us, we realize many of our clients have pressing questions about how the process works. To that end, here is a quick guide covering everything you need to know about car appraisal services in Maryland.
When to get one
Getting a car appraisal is always a smart idea, whether you immediately need one or not. But there are a few situations in which having an accurate and trustworthy estimate of your car’s value is absolutely imperative.
First and foremost, you will likely need to have your car appraised for insurance purposes. You never know when an accident might occur, and if you do not have definitive proof of your car’s value, then you might end up playing a game of “he said, she said” with your insurance agent.
Beyond insurance purposes, you ought to have your car’s appraisal updated whenever a financial decision or outcome hangs in the balance. For example, during a divorce settlement, you will want to have a fair idea of what your car is worth, so that one spouse cannot demand more compensation than is reasonable. And when donating your vehicle to charity, knowing the exact amount you can claim as a tax write-off will help prevent any trouble with the IRS.
Make it legitimate
Once you have determined you need a car appraisal, you need to make sure it is done properly. During a more informal appraisal, the appraiser might simply write a note on their letterhead estimating how much your car is worth. But if you want an appraisal that will meet the standards of most insurance companies and the IRS, a more formal approach is needed.
Your appraiser needs to experienced and certified, and should always inspect your car in person. They also ought to take photographs and detailed notes of the appraisal process, and use them to create a thorough appraisal report. If your appraiser fails to do this, you might consider seeking a second opinion.
Hire the right team
Now that you know the basics of how car appraisal services in Maryland work, it is time to hire a proven and trusted appraisal team. Since 2008, Jane Campbell-Chambliss & Associates, LLC has proudly served the entire state of Maryland, offering experience, full certification, strong versatility and a thorough approach to each of our valued clients.
For more information on car appraisal and other appraisal services in Maryland, please get in touch with Jane Campbell-Chambliss & Associates, LLC today.