What is a Desktop Appraisal?

A desktop appraisal is a professional valuation prepared without a physical site visit, relying instead on detailed documentation, market research, and remote analysis. Desktop appraisals are commonly used for personal property, machinery and equipment, vehicles, collectibles, and other movable assets where sufficient information can be obtained electronically.

As technology and data availability have improved, desktop appraisals have become a practical, efficient option for many legal, tax, insurance, and financial purposes—when scoped appropriately.

How a Desktop Appraisal Works

In a desktop appraisal, the appraiser evaluates the asset using materials provided by the client and third-party data sources. This typically includes:

• Clear photographs or videos of the asset
• Serial numbers, model information, and specifications
• Purchase records, invoices, or prior appraisals (when available)
• Maintenance records or usage history (for equipment and vehicles)
• Market data from auctions, dealers, and comparable sales

The appraiser analyzes this information using recognized valuation methodologies and prepares a written report stating the conclusion of value, assumptions, and limiting conditions.

When Desktop Appraisals Are Appropriate

Desktop appraisals are often suitable when:

• The asset is standardized or well-documented
• Market data is readily available
• The condition can be reasonably assessed through documentation
• The intended use allows for remote inspection

Common use cases include insurance coverage, estate planning, probate matters, charitable donations (when permitted), internal planning, and certain lending or compliance-related needs.

What Desktop Appraisals Are Not

A desktop appraisal is not the right solution for every situation. In-person inspections may still be required when:

• Assets are highly complex, custom, or unique
• Condition issues cannot be adequately documented
• The asset’s value is heavily dependent on physical inspection
• A lender, court, or regulator explicitly requires an onsite appraisal

A qualified appraisal firm should always assess whether a desktop appraisal is appropriate before proceeding.

Are Desktop Appraisals USPAP-Compliant?

A desktop appraisal can be compliant with professional appraisal standards, including USPAP, when properly scoped and when the intended use permits a remote inspection. Compliance depends on:

• The intended use and intended user
• Adequate disclosure of scope and assumptions
• Sufficient data to support the value conclusion

The appraisal report must clearly state that the valuation was performed without a physical inspection and describe the sources relied upon.

Benefits of Desktop Appraisals

When appropriate, desktop appraisals offer several advantages:

• Faster turnaround times
• Lower cost compared to onsite inspections
• Nationwide reach without geographic constraints
• Reduced disruption for businesses and asset owners

These benefits make desktop appraisals especially attractive for multi-asset portfolios and time-sensitive engagements.

Key Limitations to Understand

Desktop appraisals rely heavily on the quality and accuracy of provided information. Poor documentation, incomplete records, or unclear condition disclosures can limit the appraiser’s ability to reach a reliable conclusion.

For this reason, transparency and complete materials are critical to a successful desktop appraisal.

Final Thoughts

A desktop appraisal is a powerful tool when used correctly. It allows clients to obtain independent, professional valuations efficiently—without sacrificing defensibility—when an onsite inspection is unnecessary or impractical.

The key is proper scoping. A reputable appraisal firm will help determine whether a desktop appraisal is appropriate for your assets and intended use before moving forward.

If you’re considering a desktop appraisal and aren’t sure whether it’s the right fit, a brief review of your assets and purpose can help ensure the valuation meets your needs the first time.