Online vs. Traditional Antique Appraisal
Which is right for your situation? A data-driven comparison.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Traditional In-Person | Appraizely Online |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 2-4 weeks | Under 60 seconds |
| Cost | $200-$500 per item | From $0 (free tier) |
| Data Sources | Appraiser's personal experience | 5M+ verified auction records |
| Availability | Business hours, local area | 24/7, anywhere in the world |
| Documentation | Paper certificate | Instant PDF with comparable sales |
| Objectivity | Varies by appraiser | Consistent, data-driven |
| Best For | Insurance claims, legal disputes | Research, buying/selling, estate planning |
When to Choose Online Appraisal
Quick Price Check
Get an instant valuation before buying at auction or an estate sale -- know the fair price before you bid.
Large Collections
Valuing a collection or estate with many items is fast and affordable when done online -- no per-item fees adding up.
Second Opinion
Getting a second opinion on a traditional appraisal is easy -- compare your appraiser's estimate against real auction data.
Price Tracking
Research and track prices over time to spot trends and find the best moment to buy or sell your antiques.
When to Choose In-Person Appraisal
High-Value Items
Items valued over $50,000 benefit from hands-on inspection by a certified appraiser who can evaluate condition, provenance, and authenticity in person.
Legal Proceedings
Legal disputes, divorce settlements, and court cases require USPAP-certified documentation that only a qualified in-person appraiser can provide.
Condition-Critical Items
Items where physical condition is critical to value -- such as gemstones, fine jewelry, or delicate ceramics -- need hands-on evaluation.
Why Not Both?
The smartest collectors and dealers use a hybrid approach -- combining AI speed with traditional expertise when it matters most.
Start with AI
Get an instant AI valuation for immediate insight into your item's market value.
Verify Estimates
Use real auction data to cross-check an appraiser's estimate and ensure accuracy.
Save Where It Counts
Reserve traditional appraisals for items that truly warrant the cost -- high-value or legally significant pieces.
Try AI First
Start with a free AI valuation to decide if a traditional appraisal is even necessary.
The Numbers Don't Lie
AI accuracy vs final auction prices
Faster than traditional appraisals
Cost savings on routine valuations