Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
Appraisers of personal and business property estimate the fair value of tangible assets such as jewelry, art, antiques, collectibles, equipment, and land. They work for appraisal firms, auction houses, insurance companies, banks, and often as independent contractors. Their assessments are used for insurance claims, sales transactions, estate settlements, and legal disputes.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against appraisers of personal and business property and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Appraisers spend time examining items in detail, photographing and documenting condition and specifications. They research comparable sales and market data, consult reference materials and databases, and may travel to client locations or storage facilities. Much of the work involves writing detailed appraisal reports with valuations, photographs, and supporting analysis to justify their assessments.
Who this work suits
Holland code CER. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You work well in this role if you like solving concrete problems with clear answers and building a business or advancing in organizational settings. You combine analytical skills with attention to detail, enjoy research, and can explain complex valuations clearly to clients and other professionals.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $78,240 | $107,980 | $134,140 | 110 |
| New Jersey | $69,800 | $92,390 | $139,300 | 1,190 |
| Massachusetts | $68,920 | $91,750 | $114,430 | 1,100 |
| California | $70,310 | $88,900 | $121,530 | 6,380 |
| Connecticut | $70,530 | $86,050 | $109,100 | 630 |
| Washington | $64,520 | $83,710 | $100,040 | 1,150 |
| Minnesota | $64,170 | $83,400 | $115,770 | 1,380 |
| Maine | $63,520 | $80,930 | $106,760 | 230 |
| Alaska | $67,520 | $80,330 | $100,150 | 200 |
| Iowa | $58,770 | $80,160 | $100,080 | 630 |
| Hawaii | $64,870 | $79,860 | $86,110 | 130 |
| New York | $61,930 | $78,060 | $102,760 | 2,860 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Personal Property Appraiser — The Appraisal Foundation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against appraisers of personal and business property and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-2022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.