Overall Process
Before the final appraisal report is completed, there is a comprehensive inspection process that takes into account all elements of the collector vehicle. The inspection involves a detailed analysis of the car’s condition and features, and the results are documented in a clear, concise report shared with the owner. Rick’s Old Car Appraisals is a proud member of the Certified Appraisers Guild of America (CAGA), ensuring every appraisal meets the highest industry standards.
The areas that the final appraisal report focuses on include:
5 Point Inspection
Outline
Checklist focusing on the motor compartment, interior, exterior, paint, body, underside of the vehicle, condition of the parts, etc.
Highlight Stock Key Features
The goal is to properly document the stock features of the vehicle as it was when it was built new.
Document Vehicle Upgrades
If your vehicle has a lot of enhancements completed to it we want to document them.
Photograph the
Vehicle
Pictures play a key role in the final report and we take 12-18 photos for each vehicle to help document all angles and the underside of the vehicle.
Document any ID Information
Number documentation is very important in any appraisal – not only looking at the VIN but other numbers that will alter the vehicles value.
Executive
Summary
To help explain the vehicle as we viewed it each report has a complete executive summary associated with it.
Virtual Appraisal
We do offer a virtual appraisal package, however the type of appraisal and type of vehicle needs to meet a certain criteria for us to be able to complete. The owner of the vehicle will also play an important role in this process.
Get the Process Started
Appraisal Report Disclosure and Limitations of Liability
Methodology and Sources The appraised value reflects a comparison of this vehicle with similar vehicles available for sale or recently sold within a comparable timeframe. Where appropriate, adjustments have been made to account for differences in specifications, condition, and market trends. The resources referenced in determining fair market value include recent auction results, online sale and asking prices, collector vehicle market trends, and current price guides. Specific sources may include NADA, Old Car Price Guides, Kelley Blue Book, Bring-a-Trailer.com, ClassicCarValue.com, Hemmings.com, CollectorCarValue.com, ClassicCars.com, Classic.com, Edmunds, Galves, and Black Book, as well as auction results from recognized auction houses such as Mecum and Barrett-Jackson.
Appraisal Limitations and Terms of Use This appraisal provides an estimated fair market value for the subject vehicle as of the inspection date only. Rick’s Old Car Appraisals assumes no responsibility or liability for any actions taken based on this appraisal report, nor does it guarantee that the appraised value will reflect future open market sale prices. Market values fluctuate due to demand, rarity, seasonal variations, and other factors beyond our control. Accordingly, this report does not constitute any warranty, expressed or implied, regarding the vehicle’s condition, operability, or future market value.
Additional research or analysis beyond the scope of this report will incur additional fees. This appraisal opinion is based partially on information provided by the vehicle owner, including mileage, ownership history, title status, and vehicle background, which is assumed to be accurate but has not been independently verified. Rick’s Old Car Appraisals cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of such information.
The appraised value stated here reflects the opinion of Rick’s Old Car Appraisals and should be considered an informed estimate of what a potential buyer might pay under current conditions. However, neither Rick’s Old Car Appraisals nor its employees accept any responsibility for loss or damage to the vehicle, nor for any actions taken or not taken based on this report. Rick’s Old Car Appraisals does not agree to purchase, replace, or otherwise compensate for the vehicle at the appraised value or at any other value. Furthermore, this appraisal does not obligate the appraiser to provide testimony or attend legal proceedings concerning the vehicle without prior written agreement.
This appraised value is based on the appraiser’s expertise, experience, comparative analysis, and market research as of the appraisal date. Seasonal timing, geographic location, and market variability may affect value. The appraised value is not a guarantee of the vehicle’s market price, resale potential, or intrinsic worth, and we disclaim all liability related to the appraised value.
This report was prepared independently, without significant professional assistance from others. Compensation for this appraisal is not contingent upon any actions or events resulting from the analysis, opinions, conclusions, or use of this report.
Pre-Purchase Inspections This appraisal reflects an independent opinion of fair market value, representing what an informed, interested buyer might reasonably be willing to pay and what an informed, interested seller might reasonably accept under open market conditions, given adequate time for negotiation. This estimate is based on an objective assessment of the vehicle as it was presented at the time of inspection.
The inspection and opinions expressed in this report are based solely on observations made during the appraisal. Mechanical or cosmetic components may fail unexpectedly without warning. The appraiser and all parties involved in preparing this report do not accept liability for issues or failures that may arise after the inspection. By accepting this report, the client acknowledges that neither the appraiser nor any related parties bear responsibility for alleged defects or future claims associated with this vehicle. No warranty, expressed or implied, is provided by the appraiser or any associated parties. We strongly recommend that the buyer inspect the vehicle personally prior to purchase, as any purchase decisions based solely on this report are made entirely at the buyer’s own risk.
Rick’s Old Car Appraisals is an independent entity with no affiliation to vehicle dealerships, restoration shops, or business interests that could influence the appraisal outcome. The appraisal process is free from conflicts of interest, and no commissions or payments from insurance companies or other entities are accepted. All clients are treated respectfully, and their input is valued.
The appraisal is conducted objectively, with both positive aspects and areas for consideration highlighted. A detailed and informative report is provided to the client within an estimated timeframe of 5–7 business days. Above all, Rick’s Old Car Appraisals operates with the utmost integrity, honesty, and professionalism, ensuring an impartial assessment for every vehicle.
