What Is: Auto & Marine Appraisal?
Auto and marine appraisals are determinations of the value of motor vehicles and marine craft performed by appraisers who may work independently, for insurance companies, or for businesses whose primary focus is conducting appraisals. Basically, a condition and valuation appraisal is a written report on the current condition and present value of a motor vehicle or vessel based upon its condition and geographic location. While some large appraisal companies handle both automotive and marine appraisals, many deal only with cars and other motor vehicles, and others specialize strictly in marine craft. Appraisals are conducted primarily for insurance purposes such as damage claims, but are also used for purposes of litigation, taxes, property settlements, donation valuations, and evaluating the worth of antique and classic vehicles. The requirements for becoming an appraiser vary widely by state, with some states having few formal requirements and others mandating classes, testing, and even licensing. Guidelines for both auto and marine appraisals are published by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA);
A car appraisal is a determination of the car's market value at the time an auto insurance policy is written. It may also include a visual inspection of the vehicle.
An insurance company uses a car appraisal to determine how much it will likely pay the policyholder if the vehicle is damaged or destroyed
A professional opinion, usually written, of the market value of a property, such as a home, business, or other asset whose market price is not easily determined.