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Liz Holderman ISA AM - Book Appraisal Services
Antiquarian - Modern - First and Limited Editions - Autographs - Documents - Newspapers - Letters - Bibles - Magazines
Estate Evaluations - Donations - IRS and Insurance Reports
972-670-7980
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How does an appraiser know what my books are worth?
A: Appraisers research appropriate markets for your books to determine what they have sold for in the past and what they are listed for now. They subscribe to various data bases to access that information. More importantly, appraisers also know how to compare your books to those in the data bases based on edition, condition, binding styles, publisher, illustrations, dates, dust jackets and many other details.
Q: Does the appraiser need to know why I want an appraisal?
A: Yes. Values vary based on the reason for the appraisal. By definition, appraisals for insurance, charitable donations, court-ordered liquidations, equitable division of assets, inheritance tax and even resale can all have different values. Trained appraisers know the difference and follow the proper regulations for research. Q: Do I need an appraisal for a charitable contribution?
A: The IRS requires an appraisal for any donation valued over $5,000. A qualified appraiser must also sign the IRS Noncash Charitable Contributions Form 8283.
Q: Does my insurance agent need an appraisal report to insure my books?
A: Yes. An insurance company will require a report prepared by a qualified appraiser. That report is provided as part of our service.
Q: What do you charge?
A: The appraisal effort depends on the number of items to appraise, the amount of research required and the report format. An estimate of the appraisal cost can be given over the phone (or via email exchange). We specialize in high-end first editions, limited editions, autographed books, documents and historical letters. Formal reports are always recommended for these types of appraisals.
Q: What happens during an appraisal?
A: The appraiser first makes an onsite visit to take photographs and notes. Those photographs and notes are used for later research. After the research a detailed report is prepared that includes the appraised values and exactly how they were derived. Q: Why should I use an accredited or certified appraiser?
A: Appraisers with credentials have taken hundreds of hours of training in appraisal theory, property identification and market research - and they have been tested. They are required to maintain their credentials by membership in professional appraisal organizations and continuing education. They must perform in conformance with the Appraisal Foundation's 2012-2013 Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and requalify every 5 years. They are also required to show a long history of expertise in their field.
A: In general, books of lesser interest (and thus minimal value) include book club editions, public library editions, subjects that date poorly (almanacs, humor, textbooks, encyclopedias, self-help, inspirational), yesterday's novels and common reprints. Books that may have greater value include first and limited editions of classic titles, those with quality leather and decorative bindings, copies inscribed by famous persons and books of historical or special interest. Books that draw high values vary greatly based on demand. Condition is always important.
Q: Are all old books valuable?
A: Not necessarily. In general, old books that may have value include those printed before 1500, those printed in English before 1700, those printed in the United States before 1800 and those printed west of the Mississippi before 1850. Value will vary based on condition and demand.
Q: How can I date my book?
A: If there is no date on the title page, a professional appraiser can still date your book. The copyright date usually does not represent the date of publication.
Q: Are first editions always valuable?
A: Not always. But a first edition can have value if the title is collectible. Value may also depend on finer points (such as advertising, typographical errors and dust jacket styles) that determine the printing, issue or state of the first edition. All reports include a detailed description of those identifying points.
Q: I inherited a library from my grandparents/parents/aunt/uncle. What should I do?
A: We provide onsite consultations as part of our services. A consultation is not an appraisal but will help you determine how to proceed. The cost depends on the amount of books and your location. Keep in mind that unless your relative was a specific collector, these books may have nominal value.
Q: Will you travel to other locales outside of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex?
A: Yes. Travel costs will apply. Q: Will you offer to buy my books?
A: No. In order to avoid a conflict of interest, professional appraisers are not allowed to purchase what they appraise.
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