Certified Auto Appraiser · Insurance appraisals
Insurance and agreed value appraisals in Orange County
If something happens to a special car, the value on your policy is the number that counts. I make sure that number reflects what your car is truly worth today.
From the field
The number on the policy matters.
Collector car values move. A car insured for one figure a few years ago may be worth far more today, especially after a restoration, or as the market for that model has grown. Most owners don't think about it until it's too late.
I've spent thirty years buying, selling and looking after collector cars, including managing private collections here in Orange County. An appraisal gives your insurer a documented value to agree on, and gives you peace of mind.
It's worth revisiting every few years, or whenever the car or the market changes.
Keep driving,
David
When you need one
- Insuring a collector, classic or exotic car at an agreed value
- After a restoration or significant improvements
- When the market for your model has risen
- Adding a newly purchased collector car to your policy
- Reviewing values across a collection
What the report includes
- Current market value of the car, for insurance purposes
- An in-person inspection, with detailed photographs for your records
- Condition, originality, restoration and documented history
- Comparable sales and how each one was adjusted to this car
- A signed certification, prepared in line with USPAP
Independence
Agreed, stated and actual cash value
With agreed value, you and the insurer settle on the car's value up front, and that's what's paid in a total loss. With stated value, the insurer usually pays the lesser of the stated amount or the car's actual cash value. With actual cash value, it's the market value at the time of the loss, less depreciation. A documented appraisal supports an agreed value. I advise on values only; I don't sell insurance.
Questions
Good to know.
What is agreed value insurance?
A policy where you and the insurer agree on the car's value when the policy is written, and that amount is paid in a total loss. It's common for collector and classic cars.
What's the difference between agreed value and stated value?
With agreed value, the agreed amount is paid. With stated value, the insurer usually pays the lesser of the stated amount or actual cash value, so you may receive less.
How often should I update my appraisal?
Every few years, or after a restoration, a significant improvement, or a big move in the market for your model.
Do you sell insurance?
No. I provide the documented value; your insurance agent handles the policy.
Can you appraise a whole collection?
Yes. Each car is inspected and valued consistently, in one report.
Do you come to me?
Yes. I inspect cars in person throughout Orange County, from Newport Beach and Irvine to Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, at your home or storage.
Other appraisals
Request an appraisal
Tell me about the car, how it's insured today, and whether anything has changed since. I'll reply personally.