How much should an appraiser charge to tell if an item is antique or not.?

Answer 1

If you contact one of the major Auction houses - like Sothebys or Christies, they usualy give an appraisal for free, hoping that when you come to sell your piece that it will be done through them. In the first instance, they will require you to send photos.

Answer 2

A legitimate appraiser will charge only for his or her time. You are paying for their knowledge regardless of the value of the item. The fee should bear no reflection on the value of the item being appraised in the same way a doctor would not charge more to deliver the news that your leg was broken as opposed to a sprain. An appraiser can give you an estimate of the cost to appraise the item upon seeing the item(s) to be appraised and before any appraisal work is begun, perhaps through a photo or e-mail. Fees based on a percentage of the appraised value are a conflict of interest and not acceptable. Nor is it acceptable for an appraiser to offer to buy your item as it would be considered a conflict of interest as well and not a pure and unbiased assessment. It is worth finding a reputable appraiser as it will give you the confidence of knowing what you possess and will be in place for insurance and IRS purposes . Or, as Angela suggested, you can contact one of the fine auction houses if you're thinking of selling. Here is information: http://www.albanyinstitute.org/collections/choosing_an_appraiser.htm

Answer 3

depending on where you live, I know in cali, in pasadena the 2nd sunday of every month there is a flea market w/ free appraisers, and there really good!