If you want to have an accurate measure of the value of your estate, you should make sure to obtain an appraisal of the current value of your assets. The most common items for which an appraisal should be secured for are real estate, jewelry, and works of art.
But where do you begin finding a qualified Appraiser to do the job? Firstly, you should look to the person/place in which you bought the item. They may have the documentation for that asset and could provide you with an estimate of the value. If it's property you wish to evaluate, speak with the real estate company you bought the property from. They may have certified Appraisers on staff. Another option may be to check with the office of a qualified estate litigation Attorney. They may already have a list of certified Appraisers they've worked with in the past.
Appraisals are an important part of making sure that your beneficiaries receive a fair market value from your estate. And are becoming more and more scrutinized by the IRS. Consult with a professional estate litigation Attorney that can help you make sure that you've got the correct certifications in place and appropriate forms filed.
*This blog entry was not written by an Attorney and should not be constituted as professional legal advice.