Finding the Right Art Appraiser Near You

Introduction

Searching for an “art appraiser near me” is often the first step collectors take when they need a valuation. But proximity alone isn’t enough. For an appraisal to be credible-whether for insurance, estate planning, or donation-it must be conducted by a qualified, certified professional whose work is recognized by insurers, attorneys, and the IRS.

“The first question everyone should ask an appraiser is, ‘Are you USPAP-Certified? And are you qualified to appraise this specific work?” – Nicole Bray, Mercer Contemporary

At Mercer Contemporary, we provide appraisals that meet the highest professional standards, with expertise spanning Modern, Post-War, Contemporary, and Emerging art. Here’s what to consider when choosing the right art appraiser for your collection.

Look for Credentials

Not all appraisers are created equal. To ensure your appraisal is credible:

USPAP Certification: The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice is the industry gold standard. Only USPAP-compliant appraisals are accepted by insurers and the IRS.
Professional Accreditation: Organizations such as the Appraisers Association of America (AAA) rigorously vet their members for expertise and ethics.
Specialization: Fine art, antiques, jewelry, and collectibles all require different knowledge bases. Ensure your appraiser specializes in the category relevant to your collection.

Consider Expertise, Not Just Location

While you may search for a “painting appraiser near me,” the right appraiser for your collection may not be in your immediate area. The most trusted appraisers often:

Travel to view collections across the country or internationally.
Collaborate with subject matter experts in specific artists, movements, or mediums.
Provide valuations recognized globally, not just locally.

For UHNW collectors, expertise and discretion matter far more than zip codes.

Experience with Complex Collections

A single-work appraisal differs greatly from overseeing a large-scale, cross-category estate appraisal. The right appraiser should demonstrate:

Experience valuing diverse collections (from Contemporary paintings to decorative arts).
Access to a network of trusted specialists in adjacent categories.
The ability to produce reports that withstand scrutiny in legal, insurance, and tax contexts.

Discretion and Trust

Appraisals are not just technical documents – they are also highly personal. Confidentiality is paramount when dealing with UHNW families, estates, and philanthropies. Work only with professionals known for discretion, integrity, and client-first relationships.

Questions to Ask an Art Appraiser

When choosing an appraiser, consider asking:

Are you USPAP-certified and accredited with the Appraisers Association of America?
What categories of art do you specialize in?
Have your reports been accepted by insurers, attorneys, and the IRS?
Do you handle both single-work appraisals and large-scale estate projects?

What is your fee structure? (It should always be time-based, never a percentage of value.)

Why Mercer Contemporary

At Mercer Contemporary, we provide:

USPAP-compliant appraisals accredited through the Appraisers Association of America.
Over a decade of experience across Modern, Post-War, Contemporary, and Emerging art.
Cross-category networks of trusted appraisers in adjacent fields like jewelry, design, and antiques.
Global reach – while you may be searching for an “art appraiser near me,” we travel to collections and estates nationwide.
Discretion and privacy – working closely with family offices, attorneys, and tax advisors to protect clients’ interests.

Conclusion

While searching for an “art appraiser near me” may be the starting point, the right appraiser is defined not by geography but by credentials, expertise, and trust. For collectors, estates, and philanthropies, choosing the right professional ensures that valuations are credible, defensible, and aligned with your broader legacy.

Mercer Contemporary offers fine art appraisal, art advisory, and legacy planning services for collectors across the U.S. and internationally. To learn more or to arrange a consultation, please contact us.