Most estates with personal property start the same way: “What is this worth?” That’s necessary. But it’s not enough. Because at some point, the real question becomes: What should I actually do with this? Sell it? Hold it? Keep it? Try to sell it and realize it’s harder than expected? Here’s what most people don’t see: Two items can have the same value on paper—and completely different outcomes in the real world. One sells quickly, close to expectation. Another sits, requires

If you own a piece of art and you’re seeking a personal property appraisal, more than likely you will be asked about provenance. What is it and why is it important? Over the last two centuries, some of the most forged artists read like a who’s who of art history: Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Marc Chagall. It’s not just collectors who can fall for a forgery. Museums and institutions have also

Most people think estate taxes are about wealth. They’re not. They’re about timing—and valuation. Over the past few years, the uncertainty surrounding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (amongst other economic uncertainties) has changed how high-net-worth individuals approach personal property: • Art is no longer just collected—it’s transferred strategically • Collections are no longer static—they’re being actively repositioned • And valuation is no longer passive—it directly impacts

Continuing to honor women painters for Women’s History Month, let’s visit a work by Georgia O’Keefe (1897 - 1986). Often called the “mother of American Modernism,” Georgia O’Keeffe developed a groundbreaking abstract style defined by distilled landscapes and large-scale depictions of flowers and animal bones—transforming ordinary subjects into monumental forms. From early on, O’Keeffe understood the importance of both financial and creative independence. She learned valuable

When a personal property appraiser documents a home room-by-room, it’s not busywork. Photos and video create a legally defensible record of what existed, where, and in what condition — critical when heirs disagree, items disappear, or the IRS comes asking. But the smartest estate planning happens before the appraiser shows up. Here’s how to reduce the volume and complexity of what they’re walking into: - Gift now, not later. Transfer meaningful items to family members while

Continuing our appreciation for women painters during Women’s History Month, Alma Thomas (1891-1978) is a personal favorite and a Washingtonian! Alma Thomas didn’t launch her full-time art career until her late 60s — and then she changed everything. A leading figure of the Washington Color School, she created shimmering color-field canvases inspired by nature and music. Her firsts speak for themselves: first graduate of Howard University’s Department of Art (1924), first Bla

In celebration of women painters in honor of “National Women’s Month,” here’s a personal favorite and perhaps little known artist: Dorothy Waugh. Dorothy Waugh (1896-1996) was “the greatest 20th-century American graphic designer no one knows about,” according to architecture and design historian Christopher Long. Long before she led the children’s book division at Alfred A. Knopf, she was defining the aesthetic of American travel. From 1934 to 1936, Waugh created 17 iconic

The Chinese New Year began on February 17th, and kicked off the year of the Fire Horse ! This rare, 60-year cycle event combines the Horse's natural vitality with the fire element, symbolizing a time of high-octane energy, intense, rapid change, and bold, transformative action. Even more importantly, it gives us a chance to admire great works of art, featuring horses! For those who observe, Happy New Year and for everyone, enjoy this eye feast! https://news.artnet.com/art-

Great meeting with Northern Virginia Estate Planning Council ! Our speaker, Lisa Hughes, delivered an excellent recap of key takeaways from the 60th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning, held in Orlando this past January. With more than 4,000 estate, tax, and trust professionals in attendance, the conference highlighted some of the most pressing developments shaping the field today. Major themes included: • The impacts of the Old Big Better Banking Act (OBBBA)

There are so many places to experience great art in San Francisco—murals, gallery windows, pop-up installations, and of course the museums. I recently had the chance to visit SFMOMA (always worth it), and left reminded of something I often tell clients as an appraiser: Some of the most meaningful art isn’t behind glass or in private collections—it’s outdoors, woven into the daily life of a city. And for me, San Francisco’s public art conversation always circles back to Ruth A

USPAP authorized for another two years! Why does USPAP credentialing matter? Because it protects everyone involved, appraisers and clients alike. When personal property values are being used for estates, trusts, insurance, divorce, or tax-related purposes, the work has to hold up beyond the moment it’s delivered. For appraisers, USPAP provides a clear, nationally recognized framework for ethics, independence, and methodology. It’s what ensures opinions of value are supported

It’s incredible to believe that 2026 is already in swing! Recently, a former client’s attorney approached me for a future appraisal. In preparation, I suggested starting off 2026 with getting personal property inventory done. And I’ll suggest it to all as well. Not as a chore. As a gift—to yourself, your family, and the professionals who will one day need to carry out your wishes. When clients, estate planning attorneys, and personal property appraisers prepare in advance,

The transformation of the art world began a few years ago with the wealth transfer among generations. Now, however, we see some interesting stats from the below summary of the Art Basel & UBS Survey of Global Collecting 2025 report that art advisors and personal property appraisers should be aware of (if they aren’t already)! Key points: 1. Women collectors are now out-spending their male peers — on average, HNW women spent 46% more on art in 2024 than HNW men. 2. Younger

Key Trends • Strong sales in top tiers. In October 2025, Phillips’ October Photographs auctions totaled US$8.5 million, with landmark sales by Irving Penn, Josef Koudelka, and Tyler Mitchell. • Record setting lots. Christie’s October 2025 Photographs Sale in New York realized US$3.6 million in total. Highlights included Aspens, Northern New Mexico by Ansel Adams ($330,200) and Wind Erosion, Dunes at Oceano by Edward Weston ($190,500). • Strong sell-through and esti

Thirty paintings created by Bob Ross will be up for auction soon to defray the costs of programming for small and rural public television stations suffering under cuts in federal funding. Ross,"dedicated his life to making art accessible to everyone," said Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Inc. "This auction ensures his legacy continues to support the very medium that brought his joy and creativity into American homes for decades." 30 paintings total are to be auctioned th

How do you handle the estate of family members who reside outside the U.S.? Here’s a very brief overview: The U.S. trust system (revocable and irrevocable trusts) is based on common law, which isn’t universal. Some countries recognize trusts, while others do not, depending on their legal tradition. • Common Law Countries (trusts generally recognized): • Australia – Fully recognizes trusts (revocable and irrevocable) as part of its legal system. Very similar to the U.S.

There’s no doubt about it: Guitars are hot hot hot for collectors! In addition to the fantastic detail given by Doerr Dallas Valuations below, let’s include Acoustic Guitars. Guitars like pre-war Martin D-45s (only 91 built) are considered the “Holy Grail” of acoustics. Gibson J-200s, specific Martin D-28s, and vintage models from brands like Martin, Gibson, and Guild that are rare, historically important, and in good condition are sought-after. What makes a guitar desirabl

Recently, I’ve been investigating some AI powered antiques and art “pricing” apps made available to the public. There are several out there, with a number charging a subscription service or a free trial. I can see why this would be attractive to someone who is seeking a valuation on a piece that they may wish to sell. But as with all things currently AI generated or powered, there are some major problems and pitfalls. While these apps can seem to be a good starting point, th

Recently I combined my love of music with my love of art: I purchased a photograph taken by Graham Nash of Joni Mitchell, titled "Joni Listening to Music." The photograph is signed (but not numbered) and was printed using an Epson P9000 printer with archival pigment inks. The original photograph was taken in 1969. This "print" was dated 2023. So, is it a print or a poster? Well, that depends on who you talk to! In fine art photography, "print" often refers to a photograph cre

Are global economics affecting the art market and if so, how? One of the most important sections of an appraisal report is Valuation Reasoning, in which an appraiser should demonstrate (amongst many factors) their understanding of such impacts and market trends in order to reach a justifiable valuation. Currently, when collectors may be revising insurance coverage, planning trusts or using pieces as collateral in order to borrow, it’s imperative for an engaged personal prope