Bankruptcy | Chapter 7 & 13

Online Appraisal Form

Why Get a Bankruptcy Appraisal for Your Home or Business Contents?

When you're going through bankruptcy, it helps to know exactly what your belongings are worth. A bankruptcy appraisal gives you a clear, realistic picture of the value of your home furnishings, business equipment, inventory, and other personal property.

Avoids Over- or Under-Estimating Value
It’s easy to think something is worth more or less than it actually is. A professional appraisal prevents mistakes and surprises.

Our bankruptcy appraisals are conducted by USPAP-compliant (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) and ISA (International Society of Appraisers) member professionals. This means you receive court-accepted documentation that meets all legal requirements for bankruptcy proceedings. Our appraisers provide detailed, accurate valuations of personal property, business assets, inventory, equipment, and household contents for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases nationwide. We serve trustees, attorneys, and individuals throughout the United States. Contact us today for professional bankruptcy appraisal services you can trust.

FAQs

What does it mean to be USPAP compliant?

• USPAP refers to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, the nationally recognized rules that guide ethical, unbiased, and well‑supported appraisal work.

• A USPAP‑compliant report from The Peterson Exchange clearly explains how each value was reached so attorneys, courts, and the IRS can rely on the conclusions.

What types of items do you appraise?

• Fine art, paintings, prints, photography, and sculpture.

• Antiques, furniture, décor, and general household contents.

• Jewelry, watches, coins, and precious metal items.

• Collectibles, memorabilia, firearms, and select business‑related property tied to an estate or legal matter.

How are estate appraisals used for taxes and probate?

• Estate tax appraisals determine the fair market value of property as of the date of death (or alternate valuation date) for IRS filings such as Form 706.

• Attorneys, accountants, and probate courts use these valuations to administer estates, settle trusts, and document distributions.

Do you work nationwide?

• Yes. The Peterson Exchange provides estate, divorce, bankruptcy, donation, insurance, and resale appraisals for clients across all 50 states.

• Virtual consultations and document‑based reporting allow attorneys, fiduciaries, and families to work with the same qualified appraiser anywhere in the country.

Do you offer on‑site and virtual appraisal options?

• On‑site visits are available when a full walkthrough or hands‑on inspection of higher‑value items is necessary.

• Virtual and remote appraisals can be completed using detailed photos, videos, and documentation, offering a faster and more cost‑efficient option when appropriate.

How long does an estate appraisal take?

• Many single‑property estate assignments are completed in roughly two weeks once inspection and documentation are received.

• Larger estates, multiple locations, or extensive collections may require additional time for research and report development. A projected timeline is provided at the start of each assignment.

How are your fees determined?

• Fees are based on the scope of work, including the number of items, travel requirements, research complexity, and reporting needs.

• Clear estimates are provided in advance so attorneys, personal representatives, and families know the expected cost before work begins.

Is my information kept confidential?

• Yes. All client information, photos, and reports are treated as confidential and shared only with the client and any authorized professionals such as their attorney or tax advisor.

• The Peterson Exchange follows USPAP confidentiality requirements and uses secure systems to protect sensitive information.

Can you help with equitable distribution among heirs?

• Yes. Estate appraisals provide clear, supportable values that help families divide personal property fairly among heirs, beneficiaries, or co‑owners.

• These valuations reduce conflict, support buy‑outs or item exchanges, and give executors a neutral framework for making distribution decisions.

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