How to Become a Licensed Antique Appraiser

Becoming an antique appraiser requires educational courses and a hands-on practicum under a licensed appraiser. Antique appraisers establish the value of personal property and serve as expert witnesses in divorce and estate settlement cases. Financial aid is possible at some colleges for training to an an antique appraiser.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clean background check Money or financial aid to take training courses Computer ability

How to Become an Antique Appraiser

1. Antique appraisers, also often referred to as personal property appraisers, can train for a new career online. College-level courses are available at most colleges, and at real estate related schools. An antique appraiser must complete between 1,800 to 4,500 hours of experience, and 120 hours of education. A state board licensing examination and background check are also required. Antique appraisers are qualified to offer estimates on items such as art, furniture, jewelry, and general antique items.

2. The Foundation for Licensed Appraisers dictates the training curriculum for certification. Each state has specific requirements for licensure and for the hands-on apprenticeship component. The Appraisal Qualifications Board recommends standards and guidelines for licensure applicants. An appraiser certified to work in one state will need to check reciprocity agreements in order to work in other states or countries.
   
   Some states now require an appraiser to have at least a two-year college degree, or equivalent college hours. The Division of Commerce in each state lists specific requirements and guidelines for potential appraisers.

3. Antique appraisal courses begin with the basics of legal responsibility and the rights of the personal property owners. The financial training in both online and classroom courses is also a heavy component of the training. Appraisers who grossly over- or underestimate the value of an item may be liable for monetary damages to the owner. Appraisers are required by law to carry some type of errors and omission insurance. Should an appraiser face a claim by a property owner, loss of insurance, or a higher insurance premium, will likely occur. Appraisers must also be bondable and be free of any felony convictions. Misdemeanors convictions for drug and alcohol related offenses may also disqualify candidates from licensure.

4. Appraisers evaluate an item on either the replacement value, or fair market value for resale. Property owners often need to establish the replacement value of an item in order to secure insurance coverage. Owners seeking to sell an item at either an online or brick-and-mortar--style sale seek appraisal information in order to make the most money from their item.
   
   Appraisers are often used in court cases as expert witnesses. This additional source of potential income may involve determining personal property worth in divorce and estate settlement cases.

5. After you complete the required educational training and passing the licensure examination, the learning process isn't over. Continuing education hours are required in a three-year cycle. Keeping up with trends and current sales is also a daily part of appraiser duties.
   
   The National Association of Professional Appraisers is a comprehensive resource for both novice and seasoned appraisers. This organization offers educational training information, list of potential mentors, and career planning information. A $120 membership fee is required to join NAPA, with discounts available for senior citizens. For additional information visit professionalappraisers.org.
   
   Potential antique appraisers can find training and state qualification guidelines at appraisalfoundation.org. This service organization offers networking and job-placement services for certified appraisers, and test-taking tips. Appraisal education and practicum requirements are subject to change on an annual basis. The Appraisal Foundation website is updated often in order to present the most current information.
   
   Hondros College offers entry-level classroom training, online continuing education courses, and career night events for appraisers. Financial assistance is possible for those who qualify. For additional information visit hondros.org.
   
   Information on potential income projections, and career advice can be found at appraiserincome.com.
   The Allied Appraisal School offers continuing education and online courses for appraisers in all states. For additional information visit appriaserlicense.com.

Tips & Warnings

• Attending a workshop on appraisal prior to entering into classes is recommended for those who are new to the industry.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.

[ranty5]

on 10/6/2009 I agree with the above statement, my wife and I both work in the antiques and collectibles field and have done so for the last 30 years. There is no "state" or "federal" licensing required for antique appraisers, but rather a certification from one of the organizations listed above or from someone like the Asheford Institute of Antiques - which is where my wife took her appraising course - this program is only for those interested in being appraisers of antiques and collectibles, not general property. appraisers.

[lorric]

on 9/13/2009 Thanks for all the info. I am interested in becoming an appraiser. I have almost 20 years of experience both buying and selling antique and the research is by far my favorite part. Are there online classes I can take? I would like some more formal training but can't find anything close to where I'm located in CT. Thanks again.
Lorri

[mgrove]

on 7/24/2009 There is no licensing requirement for personal property (antiques, art, decorative arts, etc.) appraisers in any of the 50 states nor any territory. Qualification as a certified or accredited PP appraiser is done exclusively through appraisal societies; there are three: AAA, ISA, and ASA. I know this to be fact because I am an accredited appraiser of personal property, both with AAA and ASA. I have earned the highest credentials from both, and it was not easy. Real property appraisers (real estate) are licensed in all 50 states. See my website for additional information that is correct: www.mgrove.com.