FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

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• I typically schedule an appraisal within a day or two of when you contact me.  However, I can often work from photos and documentation.
• I perform a very detailed evaluation including exterior, interior, chassis, and engine compartment, with particular attention to any specific concerns you may have about the vehicle.  
• Extensive photographs are included in your report, as needed, to show specific details. 
• If you would like a road test, I will drive the vehicle to evaluate drive-train performance, steering, suspension, braking, body integrity.
• I prepare the report based on research and analysis to determine the vehicle’s market value.  I subscribe to the latest price guides, services that summarize recent collector vehicle auction sales, and I can use other comparable sales to arrive at an accurate market value. 
• The appraisal report is typically ten or more pages in length, with color photographs, and attachments.  I will send you a PDF copy by e-mail.  I am available to review the results, as necessary.

Once the vehicle has been repaired –

• I need a copy of the final repair estimate, showing the work done on the vehicle.
• If you have photos of your vehicle showing the accident damage (even mobile phone photos), they are helpful, but not required.  It’s nice to put them in the DV report. 
• I typically can do DV appraisals without seeing the vehicle.
• If necessary, I will inspect the vehicle to look for, and document, signs of repairs. 
• I return to my office and complete a DV report.  It typically is ten or more pages.  It documents the vehicle make, model, and identifying information, its features and options, the nature of the accident, all of the parts and components replaced or repaired, visible signs of the repaired damage, a discussion of DV and how it affects the vehicle’s post-accident value, state law on DV, then the value of the vehicle before and after the accident, and the DV amount.  I also include my credentials.
• I have done many hundreds of DV appraisals, for both individuals and insurance companies.  I’m known and respected for doing a fair appraisal. 
• You then send the DV report to the insurance company agent which handled the repair work.  I provide a draft cover letter.
• You also send the insurance company a copy of my paid invoice.  Sometimes the insurance company will reimburse you for my fees, since it’s a cost you incurred due to their client’s accident. 
• I send the report to you as a PDF by e-mail.
• I can typically have the report completed for you within a day or so.

I have offices in Baltimore County, Maryland, Naples, Florida.  I've also done extensive work across the USA.

• Standard Vehicle Appraisal (insurance, estate, bankruptcy, divorce, collateral): $250 for most vehicles, and $350 for exotic, custom, and special vehicles.
• Diminished Value appraisal: $350. 
• Pre-Accident/Pre-Loss appraisals $500. + $350 if arbitration is required.
• Mileage fees may apply.
• Expert Witness fees: available upon request.

• Payment is due at the time of the appraisal.  I accept a check (payable to Maryland Auto Appraisal LLC), cash, cashier's check, money order, Zelle, Venmo, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or PayPal.
• If you will not be present at the time of the appraisal, payment is due in advance.

My office / mobile phone number is 410-917-3271 (+1-410-917-3271 from outside the USA).  

My email address is MDAutoAppraisal@gmail.com or NationalVehicleAppraisal@gmail.com.