Desktop appraisers use the same professional valuation approaches as on-site appraisals, adapted for remote analysis.
Valuation approaches used:
The market approach compares your equipment to recent sales of similar assets, adjusting for age, condition, and features. This method works well for standard equipment with active secondary markets. The cost approach estimates current replacement cost and applies appropriate depreciation based on age, condition, and obsolescence factors.
For income-producing equipment, appraisers may consider the value-in-use approach, estimating worth based on the equipment's contribution to your business operations.
Value standards and applications:
Fair market value represents the price willing buyers and sellers would agree upon in an open market. This standard suits most business purposes including financial reporting, insurance, and general planning. Orderly liquidation value estimates proceeds from a planned sale with reasonable marketing time, useful for loan collateral analysis.
The appraiser selects appropriate value standards based on your intended use and clearly explains their application in the final report.
AspectDesktop AppraisalOn-Site AppraisalInspection MethodRemote, document-basedPhysical inspectionTypical Cost30-50% lessHigher due to travel/timeTurnaround Time3-5 business days2-3 weeksBest ForStandard equipment, multiple locationsComplex/unique machinery
Your desktop equipment appraisal report provides comprehensive documentation supporting the valuation conclusions while meeting professional standards.
Report contents and structure:
The report begins with an executive summary stating the appraisal purpose, value conclusions, and effective date. A detailed asset inventory lists each item with descriptions, serial numbers, and individual values. The methodology section explains valuation approaches used and market data sources consulted.
Assumptions and limiting conditions clarify the appraisal scope and any constraints affecting the analysis. The appraiser's qualifications and certification demonstrate professional competency and USPAP compliance.
Using your appraisal report:
Banks and lenders accept properly prepared desktop appraisal reports for many financing decisions. Insurance companies use the valuations for coverage scheduling and claims support. Internal management relies on the data for budgeting, planning, and strategic decisions.
Professional Standard: All AppraiseItNow desktop equipment appraisals comply with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and are accepted by thousands of organizations nationwide.
The report format ensures easy reference and supports various business applications while maintaining professional credibility.
Selecting a qualified appraiser ensures reliable results that meet your specific needs and professional standards.
Essential qualifications to verify:
Look for appraisers with recognized professional designations from organizations like the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) or International Society of Appraisers (ISA). USPAP compliance is mandatory for credible appraisals accepted by most institutions. Industry-specific experience with your equipment type improves accuracy and credibility.
Questions to ask potential appraisers:
Inquire about their experience with desktop appraisals and your specific equipment categories. Request sample reports to evaluate quality and completeness. Discuss turnaround times, fee structures, and any additional costs for rush services or extensive asset lists. Consider reviewing questions to ask before getting an equipment and machinery appraisal to ensure you're fully prepared.
Verify their professional insurance coverage and ask for client references when appropriate. A qualified appraiser will readily provide credentials and explain their methodology clearly. Understanding how to choose the right appraiser for your equipment and machinery can help you make an informed decision.
Desktop equipment appraisals offer an efficient solution when you need reliable equipment valuations without the time and expense of on-site inspections. By understanding when this approach fits your needs and selecting qualified professionals, you can obtain credible valuations that support important business decisions while managing costs effectively.
At AppraiseItNow, our certified appraisers provide USPAP-compliant desktop equipment appraisals nationwide, delivering the professional documentation you need for financing, insurance, and business planning decisions.
A desktop equipment appraisal is a remote valuation service that determines the fair market value of your equipment using documents, photographs, and records you provide, without requiring an on-site inspection. The appraiser analyzes your equipment list, maintenance records, and purchase documentation to determine current market values using established valuation methodologies. This approach is commonly used for financing decisions, insurance coverage, internal planning, and buy-sell transactions.
The main difference is that desktop appraisals are performed remotely using client-provided documentation and photos, while on-site appraisals include physical inspection of the equipment. Desktop appraisals typically cost 30-50% less and can be completed in 3-5 business days versus 2-3 weeks for traditional inspections. Desktop appraisals work best for standard equipment with established markets, while on-site inspections are preferred for complex machinery, legal disputes, or when banks require physical verification.
You'll need to provide an itemized equipment list including make, model, serial numbers, and acquisition dates. High-quality photographs showing overall condition, serial number plates, and any damage are essential. Additional documentation includes maintenance records, purchase invoices, warranty information, and any recent repair or upgrade records. The quality and completeness of this information directly affects the accuracy of your appraisal.
Desktop appraisals are ideal for internal financial planning, insurance coverage scheduling, routine lending decisions, and buy-sell negotiations where you need quick, cost-effective valuations. They work particularly well for standard equipment across multiple locations, computers, office furniture, and manufacturing equipment with established market data. However, you should choose an on-site appraisal for complex machinery, legal disputes, litigation support, or when banks specifically require physical inspection for high-value assets.
