Discover the expert in you.
Decorative arts appraisers have extensive knowledge about items such as paintings, figurines and sculptures, tapestries and even furniture. They try to use their knowledge of these items, as well as information about current sales markets, to determine what a piece of decorative art might be worth. For this work, some appraisers earned more than six figures annually in May 2010, but most earned around $60,000 to $65,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
People love to collect antiques and art. They do it not only because they like the work, but also for the value that the pieces may have now or gain in the future. If you have a certificate in art appraisal, you can enter the world of art. You can pursue a rewarding career in a field you love and which is in demand.
Comic books, like all collectibles, increase in value over time based on a number of factors. These include print run, storyline, creative team and condition. Some people think an old comic is nothing but trash and others believe it to be a goldmine, but the reality often falls somewhere in between. Knowing the value can dispel illusions and help you decide whether to give the books to neighborhood kids or save them to put yours through college. Keep in mind that the value is not set in stone. In the end, the book is worth what a buyer will pay.
Whether you have some art pieces that you believe are valuable and need a one-time art appraiser, or you own a shop and need an appraiser on retainer, there are a few steps you should take first.
If you have an old painting from an ancestor's estate or received one as a gift, you may want to have it appraised to find the value for insurance purposes. If you're donating works of art to charity, you need an appraisal to list the value for the IRS.