What should you not say to an appraiser?

When working with an appraiser, it’s important not to suggest or pressure them toward a specific value outcome. Statements like “we need it to come in at this number” or “this is what it should be worth” can compromise independence and credibility.

You should also avoid withholding relevant information, such as known defects, usage issues, or missing components, as this can lead to inaccurate results and potential problems later. Instead, focus on providing complete, factual details—purchase records, maintenance logs, and operational status. A qualified appraiser’s role is to form an unbiased opinion of value based on evidence, not to validate a predetermined figure.