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Johnnie White, CEO: September 2019 Travels

This past September I had the opportunity to travel to Japan and New Zealand to visit with some amazing ASA members and worked on partnerships that will strengthen ASA for the future. Below is a brief summary of my travels excerpted from my Twitter feed. Follow me on Twitter @johnniewhiteCEO or Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/johnnniewhiteceo for more ASA updates.

In Tokyo with BV leaders:

In Auckland, New Zealand:

Follow Johnnie White on Twitter @johnniewhiteCEO or LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johnnniewhiteceo for more ASA updates.

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By John Mathe, ASA

AUCKLAND, NZ–The 11^th annual International Conference on the Valuation of Plant, Machinery & Equipment (ICVPME) was held in Auckland, New Zealand on Sept. 9-11, 2019. Conference speakers represented major international and national valuation organizations and leading companies from across the world, including the Forum’s partners: ASA, IVSC, RICS, CAS, TAQEEM, IIBV, IACVS, CICBV–and many others.

American Society of Appraisers (ASA) speakers at the event included: Johnnie White, CEO, ASA; Craig E. Akins, ASA; David Crick, ASA; Roger J. Grabowski, FASA; Lee Hackett, FASA; Brad Hartsburg, ASA; Rod Hyman, ASA; Gregory W. Kort, ASA; Norman Laskay, ASA; Alexander N. Lopatnikov, ASA; John Mathe, ASA; Mona L. Miller, FASA; Paul C. Osaji, ASA; Samuel Shapiro, ASA; and Jeffrey S. Tarbell, ASA.

Conference attendees had the unique opportunity to discuss the changing valuation regulation and standards and learn about various valuation cases covering all disciplines and asset types. The conference agenda included professional roundtable discussions, multi-discipline workshops, and training opportunities.

John Mathe, ASA, authored the following blog about the Conference:

The ICVPME Conference had delegates from almost 20 countries, over 30 speakers, representing around 18 Valuation Professional Organizations (VPO)’s globally.

Delegate engagement and satisfaction was one of the highest and attendance stayed almost full right up to the last session.

We have a repertoire of almost 30 presentations, some of which will be converted into articles for display in the ASA Machinery & Technical Specialties (MTS) & Business Valuation (BV) journals.

Work has already started on the next conference slated to be held in Riyadh in 2021 (TAQEEM) which looks to become a major appraisal conference event for European, Middle Eastern, African, Asian and North American VPO’s alike.

Instrumental to the success of the conference were the following: Alexander Lopatnikov, ASA; Rod Hyman, ASA; Rick Berkemeier, ASA; Alhanouf Alabood, TAQEEM; Jeffrey Tarbell, ASA; and of course Lee Hackett, FASA; and Les Miles, FASA (whom incidentally are two of the original founders of the event).

Keynote speakers comprised Roger Grabowski, FASA (D&P); Robert Brackett, (IACVS); Professors’ Alastair Marsden and Abdul-Rasheed Amidu (Auckland University); and Professor Haisu Wang, (Zhongnan University).

Topics were as diverse as Cryptocurrency (Singh and St. John) to Hemp (Shapiro) to Cost of Capital Tool Kit (Marsden).

The Australian Chapter of the ASA continued to support the event by sponsoring a Wine Tasting Reception which was one of the highlights of the conference networking events.

Given this conference takes around two years to organize and is completely organized and run by volunteers from five continents, it is an incredible achievement of what has been lauded by many as one of the ‘Must Attend’ conferences on the global appraisal calendar. Conference chairman, Mr. Alexander Lopatnikov stated: “This was one of the most successful and enjoyable conferences held in the 22 year history of the biennial event.”

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CARLSBAD, CA–The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) is hosting an Advanced Synthetic Diamond Seminar at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) World Headquarters in Carlsbad, CA on October 7-8, 2019. This two-day seminar builds on GIA’s more than 60 years of scientific research into natural, treated and laboratory-grown diamonds and 80 years of GIA’s industry-leading gemological education programs. Seminar participants will gain an in-depth knowledge of advanced diamond identification techniques, including hands-on experience with current production of laboratory-grown diamonds and the latest detection technology. Attend the fascinating seminar to learn the latest techniques from GIA expert researchers!

“Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry,” according to GIA.

This seminar is a combination of lecture and lab that leverages the expertise of GIA research scientists and the education skills and experience of GIA instructors. The GIA research scientist presenting the seminar has expert knowledge of laboratory-grown diamond as a material, its identification and gemological characteristics, along with the processes used by GIA’s laboratories to separate laboratory-grown from natural diamonds.

The Robert Mouawad Campus at GIA World Headquarters is the premier gem studies school — with state-of-the-art classrooms, the famous GIA laboratory, and an internationally recognized museum.

Located on the Pacific Ocean in a setting of beaches and mountains, Carlsbad is a beautiful place to learn as well as relax after class. From surfing and sailing to hiking and golfing, there’s an array of activities available. Nearby attractions include the Oceanside Pier, Carlsbad Flower Fields, San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld—and more. It’s a great place to visit while learning advanced synthetic diamond detection techniques!

Register now by clicking here.

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NEW YORK, NY–The 2019 ASA Personal Property Connoisseurship Conference – NY was held on August 25-28, 2019 at the New York Marriott Marquis in New York City. With a focus on The Fine and Applied Arts Professional in the 21st Century: How to Adapt, Function and Excel, the intensive three-day conference provided hard-to-obtain insights into key topics and issues facing personal property appraisers, and connections with experts, scholars, and allied professionals across North America. Presenting speakers included individuals from the industry media, specialty auction houses, galleries, museums, and academia, among others.

“The conference this year was top-notch. The speakers were informative and all spoke on such different topics that really applied to personal property and the arts,” said Terri Stearn, a candidate from Detroit, MI. “The networking was great and I walked away with two incredible contacts from speakers that I never would have gotten if I hadn’t attended.”

Kicking off the conference was a pre-conference reception at Valerie on Sunday, August 25.

Monday’s activities began with welcoming remarks and announcements by Frances Zeman, FASA, Appraisal Resource Associates, Inc.

The educational sessions began, starting with a presentation on Blockage & Insurance: Case Law by Ronald D. Spencer, Esq., Counsel, Carter Ledyard & Milburn LLP.

Next was a panel discussion on: Luxury Resale: A Burgeoning Market in a Global Economy featuring Karin Dillie, Director, The RealReal; Alexandra Gilbert, VP Sales and Account Management, Sotheby’s Home; and Rachel Hagopian, Manager, Marketplace Trust, 1stdibs.

Following up was a presentation on Appraisers & Dealers: Building and Fostering Relationships featuring Eric Gleason, Director, Paul Kasmin Gallery; Alexis Johnson, Director/Artists Liaison, Levy Gorvy; and Ethan Cohen, Ethan Cohen Fine Arts.

In the afternoon a presentation was held on Artists Estates: The Problems Therein by Michael Klein, Independent Curator, Manager, The Jene Highstein Estate; Stolen Art and History: A Curator Uncovers Theft from the Edward Hopper Estate by Gail Levin, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor, Baruch College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York; and Bardini & Co.: Objects Made for the Market by Lynn Catterson, Ph.D., Art Historian/Lecturer, Columbia University.

The Educational Foundation Silent Auction and President’s Networking Reception followed Monday’s educational classes in the evening. The auction was a huge success due to over 60 items being donated. With Dueling Pianos for entertainment, the auction and President’s Networking Reception concluded the first full day of the conference.

Educational sessions on Tuesday began with presentations on Protest Pots: Clay as Social Commentary by Peter Held, AM, Curator/Scholar, Peter Held Appraisals and Garth Johnson, Curator, Everson Museum of Art.

Next was a panel discussion on Changing Tastes: A Paradigm of Design by Patrick Bavasi, Director, Hyde Park Antiques, Lawrence Weinberg, Founder & Principal, Weinberg Modern, and Jim McConnaughy, Senior Vice President, S.J. Shrubsol.

Following up was a session on Ascertaining the State of the Market in This Information Age, featuring Steven Kaminski, Marketing Manager, Art Newspaper, and Sarah Cascone, Senior Writer, ArtNet.

In the afternoon, presentations focused on: Understanding the Metrics of the Art Market by Alanna Butera, Vice President & Manager, Butera Art Advisory and Management, LLC; Robert Motherwell Et Al: Connoisseurship & Science by Jack Flam, Ph.D., President/CEO, Dedalus Foundation; Egon Schiele’s ‘Dammernde Stadt’: A Story of Restitution by Lucian Simmons, Vice Chairman, Worldwide Head, Restitution Department / Senior Vice President, Senior Specialist, Sotheby’s; and Many Shades of Gray: Determining Authenticity in 20th & 21st Century Glass by Bill Warmus, Curator, Art Critic, Author, Corning Museum of Glass.

A reception was held at Heritage Auction House with the featured presentation: Tips for Collecting and Appraising Handbags byDiane D’Amato, Head of Luxury, Heritage Auctions.

Wednesday began with presentations on Where do we come from? What are we? Where are we going? Provenance as Integral to a Work of Art by Elizabeth Gorayeb, The Wildenstein Plattner Institute; Objets d’Art: Preserving Distinction in a Niche Market by George Glazer, President, George Glazer Gallery: Antiquarian Globes, Maps, Prints and Scientific Instruments, and Madeleine O’Hare, Macklowe Gallery.

Next were sessions on “Make Offer to Owner”: A New Platform by Elyse Luray, Art Historian, Vice President of Trusts & Estates, Heritage Auctions; and Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence in the Art Market by Anne Bracegirdle, Art & Technology, Christie’s.

Following lunch were presentations on “Et Tu Brute”: The Rights of Artists & The Rights of Collectors by Lena Saltos, Associate General Counsel, Global Director/Intellectual Property,  URBN;  Scientific Analysis for 21st Century Art Collectors: Better Technologies, Better Approaches, Better Collections, by Jennifer Mass, Ph.D., President, Scientific Analysis of Fine Art, LLC and Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Cultural Heritage Science, Bard Graduate Center for Decorative Arts, Design History and Material Culture; and Wood Furniture: The Impact of Conservation on the Marketplace by Olaf Unsoeld, Founder/Partner, Fine Wood Conservation, Ltd.

Closing remarks for the conference were given by Frances Zeman, FASA, Appraisal Resource Associates, Inc.

Our generous sponsors were: Heritage Auctions, Kersten’s Antiques, Collector Systems, Rehs Galleries, Inc., Fine Art Connoisseur, Art Recovery Technologies, artprice.com, Wright RAGO, ASA Long Island Chapter, ASA Northern New Jersey Chapter and ASA New York City Chapter.

Thank you to all of our speakers, conference participants and sponsors for making this year’s Personal Property Conference a truly outstanding event. We look forward to seeing you all at next year’s Personal Property Conference in Chicago.

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ASA Appraiser to Co-Chair Event with Jay Leno

By Sharon Reed

NEWPORT, RI — How would you judge the authenticity, originality, and indeed sheer beauty of a 1939 Alfa 6C Superleggera or perhaps a 1935 Bugatti Type 57, as well as many other rare, exotic and vintage cars to determine the “Best of the Best”?  American Society of Appraisers (ASA) accredited appraiser David H. Kinney has been appointed as Chief Judge to oversee the daunting task of judging automobiles of that caliber at Audrain’s Concours d’Elegance, to be held in Newport, RI on Oct. 6, 2019. ASA accredited appraiser Donald W. Osborne, ASA, will Co-Chair the Concours d’Elegance event with former late-night television host Jay Leno, a world-renowned automobile collecting, restoration and culture expert.

More than 100 high-end classic automobiles will be on display at Audrain’s Concours d’Elegance, during Audrain’s Newport Concours & Motor Week at The Breakers in Newport, a luxurious nearly 125-year-old oceanfront mansion, on October 3-6, 2019.

Held worldwide, “Concours d’Elegance” refers to events in which world-class rare and vintage collector vehicles are displayed and judged by automotive experts. While Concours events date back to the horse-drawn carriage era, the oldest still-existing Concours, the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, was first held in Cernobbio, Italy in 1929. In the U.S., the Pebble Beach Concours is the oldest founded Concours automotive event, held since 1950 in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA.

Presented by The Audrain Automobile Museum in Newport, Audrain’s Concours d’Elegance will be its inaugural first annual event. Various charitable organizations in the Newport region will be beneficiaries of the Concours event.

ASA accredited appraisers David W. Osborne and David H. Kinney have both been involved with Concours events for many years.

“I first showed a car in a Concours d’Elegance back in the early 1980s,” Osborne said. “I attended my first Pebble Beach Concours in 1989 and have attended every year since. I began to serve as a judge, announcer and consultant at Concours events in 2004 and now work at shows across the USA, in Italy and Japan.”

A life-long car enthusiast, Kinney began judging Concours events in 1996, and has to date has participated in nearly 30 Concours events in the USA, Canada and Switzerland. Kinney will also be judging at the 21 Gun Salute Concours in New Delhi, India in 2020.

At Audrain’s Concours d’Elegance, Kinney will help guide the team of 36 distinguished judges from the USA, Italy, the UK, Canada and Germany who will choose “the best of the best” from among the entry of 100 vehicles, covering the first 70 years of the 20th century. Vehicles will be carefully selected and vetted to participate in the grand Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, Oct. 6.

“Judging automobiles is a painstaking task,” said Kinney. “Vehicles are normally judged for their authenticity, including possessing original or original style components, including mechanical, upholstery, paint, plating and more. At the Audrain event, there is an additional emphasis is on ‘Luxury, Sport and History.’”

“Automobile collectors and restorers ‘speak the same language’ as collectors of art and antiques. They take steps to painstakingly repair or restore vintage automobiles to their original form. We discuss patina, originality, provenance, and condition of automobiles. We focus on preservation and discoveries of new finds,” according to Kinney. “In the end, the decision is often made to just leave everything alone and preserve all we can.”

“All Concours events have their own particular approach to judging. Some use a 100 point scale which encompasses all levels of detail of originality, restoration materials and techniques, colors and condition,” Osborne added. “Others use a more aesthetic approach, what is known as ‘French’ judging. In this case, originality and authenticity is still weighed, but the presence and historical interest of a vehicle may count for more than pristine condition.”

Both Osborne and Kinney emphasized the value of ASA accreditation when judging high-end automobiles. ASA is the acknowledged leader in Personal Property Appraising and includes members who perform appraisals for various purposes such as sale, acquisition, taxes, estate planning and more. Personal Property members can specialize in more than 26 specialties, including automotive specialties.

“My membership in ASA has opened a lot of doors and also gives me the skill set to deal with all types of clients, from the fresh to the hobby to the more high-end individual. I find my ASA membership worthwhile,” Kinney said. “As a rule, I only refer potential clients to other ASA Appraisers when possible.”

“My ASA membership is critical in both my approach to my work and the presentation of the professional approach I take with my clients. As there is no governmental licensing or certification for personal property appraisers it can be like the ‘Wild West’ for consumers seeking a vehicle appraisal,” Osborne added. “Almost every automotive enthusiast has many friends, acquaintances and people with very vested interests ready and willing to provide a value opinion, most often without any reliable or trustworthy methodology. My membership in and accreditation by the ASA allows me to demonstrate to clients and fellow professionals in the automotive business the level of the work that I perform.”

Osborne said that he recommends ASA accreditation for others seeking to appraise classic cars.

“I have suggested to a number of knowledgeable friends and associates that they investigate the pursuit of ASA membership and accreditation as a way to best develop both their skills and their standing in the profession,” Osborne said.

“One of the best aspects of being an ASA Personal Property appraiser with an Automotive Specialty is the amazing camaraderie of the group. We meet annually to share best practices, learn new developments in appraisal theory and practice and improve our connoisseurship,” according to Osborne. “We also communicate regularly to consult with each other on projects – we’re a real brotherhood, who would of course also welcome some sisters into our group!”

Based in Great Falls, Va., nearby to Washington, D.C., Kinney owns USAppraisal, an automotive valuation firm.

A lifelong car enthusiast, Kinney has been involved in almost every phase of the automobile industry. Kinney is also well known as an automotive journalist. He is a columnist for Autoweek Magazine and the British publication Octane. Kinney is also a past contributor to the The New York Times, Automobile Section.

Additionally, Kinney is the founder and publisher of Hagerty Price Guide (formerly known as Cars That Matter). He also serves on the Board of the Rolls Royce Foundation and the McPherson College Advisory Board.

Donald Osborne, ASA, is a classic car historian, author, consultant and writer. Based in Palm Springs, CA, Osborne co-hosts a regular segment on ‘Jay Leno’s Garage,’ a CNBC Primetime television show with Jay Leno, broadcast in more than 7 countries around the world.

As owner of Donald W Osborne, LLC / Automotive Valuation Services, Osborne works for clients across the world on the acquisition, sale and valuation of classic vehicles. He travels throughout the United States and Europe to attend major events, rallies and auctions.

He is the author of the book: ‘Stile Transatlantico / Transatlantic Style- a Romance of Fins and Chrome,’ and Editor-at-Large for Sports Car Market magazine. Osborne’s writing on classic cars has also been published in The New York Times, BusinessWeek Online, The Wall Street Journal, Art & Antiques, Octane, Palm Springs Life and Road & Track, among others.

Osborne has also curated museum and gallery exhibitions, including ‘Transatlantic Style’ at the Blackhawk Museum and ‘Ferrari and Futurists: An Italian Look at Speed in California and ‘Styling the Future: A History of GM Design and Concept Cars’ at the Audrain Automobile Museum in Rhode Island.

For information on how to become an Accredited ASA Personal Property Appraiser, click here.

To find an appraiser, visit www.appraisers.org/find-an-appraiser and utilize the dropdown menu to choose an ASA Specialty, such as “Automotive Specialties.”

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The American Society of Appraisers recently held its 82^nd annual International Appraisers Conference on August 25-27, 2019 in New York City, NY at the New York Marriott Marquis. In keeping the tradition of providing the highest-level of education for appraisal experts, this year’s IAC featured more than 40 sessions of the most comprehensive educational programming available taught by preeminent thought-leaders from all appraisal disciplines. IAC’19 kicked off Sunday night with a Welcome Reception, allowing attendees to get to know one another and network.

To see photos of the Joint ASA 2019 Advanced Business Valuation and International Appraisers Conference, click here.

Monday was the first full day of the conference with introductions and welcoming remarks from ASA’s International President Douglas R. Krieser, ASA. Next, Johnnie White, ASA’s CEO, spoke and then invited Krieser back to the stage, along with ASA’s past President Robert B. Morrison, ASA, IA. Morrison subsequently thanked Lee P. Hackett, FASA for serving as ASA’s interim CEO for one and one-half years. Hackett was presented an award in appreciation for his service.

Next, Morrison invited the ASA Joint Conference Keynote Sponsor, Chad Sandstedt, Co-Founder and CEO of TagniFi to the stage to introduce keynote speaker, Sir David Tweedie, Chairman, International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC). Sir David Tweedie then discussed: “Globalization, the Public Interest and Recognition of the Valuation Profession.”

Following the keynote presentation, attendees adjourned to the appropriate specialized educational track they chose.

The first educational sessions of the day included presentations on 2020 USPAP Updates by R. Lee Robinette, ASA, President, Collateral Evaluation Associates, Inc.; Introduction to ColorCodex: A Revolutionary Color Referencing System, by Christopher Smith, GG, FGA, President, American Gemological Laboratories; and Reducing the Gap Between IVS and USPAP Practices by Jack Beckwith, ASA, CEA, President, EAGI.

The annual International Awards Luncheon followed these educational sessions. ASA International President Douglas Krieser presented the following awards:

ASA’s Chapter Member of the Year Award was given to Melanie Modica, ASA, ARM-PP and Pamela Bensoussan, ASA, ARM-PP, both from the Houston Chapter. The Chapter Education Event Award was designated for the ASA-NAIFA New Jersey Atlantic-Cape South Chapter and The Chapter Outreach Program Award for the Chicago Chapter. The Chapter of the Year Award was given to the Houston Chapter.

Next Krieser presented the Rising Star Award winners: Chelsey Janzen, ASA, Stella Law, ASA, Mack Mangan III, ASA, Lauren P. Miller, ASA, Mathew J. Muller, ASA, Carolina Rocha and Kathleen Turner.

Following that Krieser announced that the Board of Examiners recognized Paul D. Roberts, ASA, for the Examiner of the Year Award.

Next the NAIFA award winners were announced. The NAIFA Appraiser-of-the-Year Award was given to Sherrie Galderisi, ASA; the NAIFA Educator of the Year Award to Margaret Orman; and the NAIFA Paul Wetzel Award to Charles E. Blau, ASA, IFAC.

Lunch was served and following that Krieser returned to the stage to present the individual awards. The Jerry Larkins Volunteer Service Award was given to Juanita E. Addeo, ASA, MGA, and The Sylvia Wade Olson Award of Merit to Sabriya Tony.

Next, The Woman Appraiser of the Year Award was designated for Jamie Allen, ASA.

Following the awards presentation, Krieser recognized the current past ASA president Robert B. Morrison, ASA, IA. Then he asked the members of the Board of Governors in attendance to stand and be recognized.  Finally, he asked International Secretary Treasurer David Crick, ASA,  and International Vice President Lorrie Beamont, ASA, to stand.

After lunch, sessions touched on topics of Across Disciplines: What Appraisers Should Know About Property Tax Appeal by Mary O’Connor, ASA, CFE, Partner, Sikich LLP; The Biased Appraiser: The Impacts of Biased Decision Making by John Mathe, ASA, AAPI CPV, AVAA, FEWA, Managing Director, Henley Valuers; GIA Presents: Methods of Manufacturing Jewelry and Their Forensic Traces by Elizabeth Brehmer, JMA Technical Advisory, Gemological Institute of America; What the IRS Is Looking for in Your Appraisal by Michael A. Gregory, ASA, CVA, NSA, MBA, Qualified Mediator Minnesota Supreme Court and Founder, Michael Gregory Consulting, LLC and The Collaboration Effect; Developing a Strong Scope of Work that Won’t Break Your ARM by Joel D. Gonia, ASA – ARM & MTS/M&E, Senior Review Appraiser, KATS M & E, LLC.

Next were the following presentations: Best Ways to Create a Strong Referral Network by Jay E. Fishman, FASA, FRICS, Managing Director, Financial Research Associates and Z. Christopher Mercer, FASA, CFA, ABAR, Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Mercer Capital; Valuation of Oil and Gas Assets by Jim Harden, Partner, Valuation Advisory, Moss Adams LLP; GIA Presents: Fancy-Colored Melee Diamonds and Their Identification, by Dr. Wuyi Wang, Vice President of Research and Development, Gemological Institute of America; What the IRS Is Looking for in Your Appraisal by Michael A. Gregory, ASA, CVA, NSA, MBA Qualified Mediator Minnesota Supreme Court and Founder, Michael Gregory Consulting, LLC and The Collaboration Effect; Investigating a Purchase Price Allocation for Audit Review: An Appraisers Perspective by Michael Jones, ASA, Senior Managing Director, Industrial Valuation Group, Suncorp Valuations; Engaging Millennials in the Workplace by Dillon Knight Kalkhurst, Founder, The Center for Intergenerational Engagement; GIA Presents: Forensic Application of Manufacturing Trace Indicators by Elizabeth Brehmer, JMA Technical Advisory, Gemological Institute of America; Valuation in Litigation: Destruction of the Company Damages by Angela J. Somers, Partner, Reid Collins & Tsai LLC; and Theme Park Valuations by the Honorable Rick Singh, CFA, Property Appraiser, Orange County Florida Property Appraiser and Terry Taylor, CAE, RES, AAS, Director Real Estate Residential, Orange County Florida Property Appraiser.

The ASA’s Rising Stars event was held Monday evening. The reception gave attendees the opportunity to meet and network with other rising professionals in the appraisal industry.

The Educational Foundation Silent Auction and President’s Networking Reception also followed Monday’s educational classes in the evening. The silent auction was a huge success due to over 60 items being donated. With Dueling Pianos for entertainment, the auction and President’s Networking Reception concluded the first full day of the conference.

An Early Riser session: Collaboration for the Future pre was held Tuesday morning at 7:00am. The participants in the discussion were: Johnnie White, MBA, CAE, CMP, CEO/Executive Vice President, American Society of Appraisers; Mary Jane Andrews, President & CEO, CBV Institute; Ray Moran, ASA, MRICS, CEO/MG Valuation, Chair, Marketing Committee/iiBV; and Neil Shah, Regional Managing Director, Americas, RICS.

Educational sessions began immediately after the Early Riser Session, namely: IRS Valuation Update – What Appraisers Need to Know by Cheryl Teifer, Director, Field Operations Engineering, Eastern Compliance Practice Area, LB&I, Internal Revenue Service, and Frank Molinari, SRA, CVA, Appraisal Team Leader, Internal Revenue Service; Two Wild and Crazy Guys Talk about Insurance Appraisals by Fernando Sosa, ASA, MRICS, Director, Cushman & Wakefield, and David Koller, ASA, MRICS, Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield; Geuda Sapphire by Sheahan Stephen, President, Sheahan Stephen Sapphires; Aristotle’s Three Artistic Proofs Applied to Collateral Valuation Policy by John D. Russell, JD, Senior Director of Government Relations and Business Development, American Society of Appraisers; How to Have More Influence and Impact in the Courtroom by Deborah Johnson, M.C., President, High-Stakes Communication, LLC; Semiconductor Fab Valuations: Things to Consider by Jaclyn Cannici, ASA, Director, Machinery & Equipment, Duff & Phelps; and Provenance and Grading of Pink Diamonds: Argyle and non-Argyle from World Sources by Branko Deljanin, BSc, GG, FGA, DUG, President, CGL-GRS Swiss Canadian Gemlab Inc.

Next was a panel discussion: What Experts Need to Know: A View from the Bar and the Bench, featuring the Honorable Matthew F. Cooper, New York State Supreme Court Justice, New York Supreme Court, New York County; Allen E. Mayefsky, Esq., Aronson Mayefsky and Sloan LLP; Jay E. Fishman, FASA, FRICS, Managing Director; Financial Research Associates; and Kenneth J. Pia, Jr., ASA, CPA, ABV, MCBA, Partner-in-Charge, Business Valuation Services, Marcum LLP.

Following that was Market Update Round Table featuring: Michael E. Winterfeld, Director, Appraisal Services, Taylor & Martin, Inc.; Joel D. Gonia, ASA, ARM & MTS/M&E, Senior Review Appraiser, KATS M & E, LLC; Fernando Sosa, ASA, MRICS, Director, Cushman & Wakefield; Jim Harden, Partner – Valuation Advisory, Moss Adams LLP; and Alec Story, VP,  Perfection Global LLC. Next was Updates on the Current Natural Fancy Colored Diamond Market by Alexander Eblen, Vice President, Senior Specialist, Sotheby’s.

Following lunch were presentations on. Expert Witness: Know Your Audience by Joel Levin, Esq., Owner, Levin & Associates Co., L.P.A.; What Do Financial Institutions Look for in Appraisals? by Paul R. Cogley, Jr., ASA, SVP Commercial Valuation Manager, Banc of America Leasing; Blockchain Fundamentals for the Gemstone and Diamond Industry by Scott Austin, Senior Executive Vice President, Everledger Inc.; Technology for the Appraiser by Garrett Schwartz, ASA, CEA, Senior Equipment Appraiser, Sencer Appraisal Associates; Identifying Characteristics of Fabricating Equipment by Alec Story, ASA, Vice President, Perfection Global; Diamond Portrait Jewels: A Case Study by David Wolf, ASA, MGA®, GIA GG, Director, Just Appraisers LLC and Benjamin Zucker, Precious Stones Co.; Using Mobile Technology to Improve Appraiser Efficiency & Practical Issues Dealing with Bifurcated Appraisals by David R. Doering, ASA, IFA, Vice President, Missouri Property Appraisal, Inc. and Shane M. Weber, ASA, IFA, Appraiser/Appraisal Technology Coordinator, Missouri Property Appraisal, Inc.; Cross Discipline Approach to Specialized Markets by Richard Gilmore, FASA, Senior Vice President, AgVisory; How to Overcome Common Obstacles to Marketing and Achieve Success by Mellanie Bartlett, Co-Owner | Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners and Debby Sweeney, Co-Owner, Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners; How to Pass an Audit Review with Flying Colors by Michael Crismyre, ASA, Senior Director, RSM; One Trip Around the Sun: Legal Updates by Tiffany Stevens, President & CEO, Jewelers Vigilance Committee; Using Mobile Technology to Improve Appraiser Efficiency & Practical Issues Dealing with Bifurcated Appraisals (cont.) by David R. Doering, ASA, IFA, Vice President, Missouri Property Appraisal, Inc. and Shane M. Weber, ASA, IFA, Appraiser/Appraisal Technology Coordinator, Missouri Property Appraisal, Inc.; and The Appraiser and Review of the Appraiser’s Work in Alternative Dispute Resolution by John Levitske, ASA, CPA/ABV/CFF/CGMA, CFA, CFLC, CIRA, MBA, JD, Senior Managing Director, Commercial Disputes, Business Valuation Dispute Analysis, Ankura; and Leslie A. Berkoff, Esq., Partner: Co-Chair of Litigation & Bankruptcy Group and Co-Chair of Alternative Dispute Resolution Group, Moritt Hock & Hamroff LLP.

ASA hosted a series of educational courses in New York City prior to IAC’19. The given courses were: Introduction to Business Valuation, Market Approach; Introduction to Business Valuation, Asset Approach, Discounts & Premiums; Introduction to Machinery and Equipment Valuation; Machinery & Equipment Valuation – Advanced Topics & Report Writing; Appraisal Review and Management Overview.

The American Society of Appraisers would like to thank the conference sponsors: Platinum: TagniFi, RICS, Gold: Knowcraft Analytics, Silver: Borrowman Baker LLC, BV Resources, Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners, Inc., Bronze: Gem-A USA, Helivalue$, Inc., National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA), Exhibitors: Forensic Expert Witness Association (FEWA), NARMCO/Southeast Appraisal, Duff & Phelps, Crown of Light, RC Reports, GF Data Systems, Sectilis.

ASA would also like to thank the planning committee and advisors for all of their hard work and support: International Conference Chair Douglas R. Krieser, ASA, Matthew Kaufman, ASA, Juanita Addeo, ASA, William M. Engel, ASA, Jamie Allen, ASA, William P. Wilson III, FASA.

Save the Date! Make plans to attend the 2020 ASA International Conference in Chicago,  October 11-13, 2020.

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The American Society of Appraisers recently held its 38^th annual Advanced Business Valuation Conference on August 25-27, 2019 in New York City, NY at the New York Marriott Marquis.

This conference presented the most comprehensive Business Valuation educational programming available, taught by the world’s top Business Valuation professionals. This two-day event offered attendees more than 30 highly focused educational sessions in areas of business valuation, fair value and a variety of specialized topics.

To see photos of the Joint ASA 2019 Advanced Business Valuation and International Appraisers Conference, click here.

The 2019 Advanced BV Conference was held in conjunction with ASA’s 2019 International Appraisers Conference, allowing a unique opportunity for attendees to expand their global professional network and interact with attendees and exhibitors. The conference kicked off Sunday night at the Welcome Reception giving attendees the opportunity to mingle and network with one another.

Monday was the first full day of the conference with introductions and welcoming remarks from ASA’s International President Douglas R. Krieser, ASA. Next, Johnnie White, ASA’s CEO, spoke and then invited Krieser back to the stage, along with ASA’s past President Robert B. Morrison, ASA, IA. Morrison subsequently thanked Lee P. Hackett, FASA for serving as ASA’s interim CEO for one and one-half years. Hackett was presented an award in appreciation for his service.

Next, Morrison invited the ASA Joint Conference Keynote Sponsor, Chad Sandstedt, Co-Founder and CEO of TagniFi to the stage to introduce keynote speaker, Sir David Tweedie, Chairman, International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC). Sir David Tweedie then discussed: “Globalization, the Public Interest and Recognition of the Valuation Profession.”

Following the keynote presentation, attendees adjourned to the appropriate specialized educational track they chose.

Breakout sessions followed the keynote and included topics such as A Closer look at International Valuation featuring Adriana Berrocal, ASA BV/IA, FRICS, MBA, Partner, Deloitte Mexico; Raymond Moran, ASA, MRICS, CEO, MG Valuation; Mercedes Falcon, ASA, Senior Vice President, Valuation Research Corporation; and PJ Patel, ASA, CFA, Senior Managing Director and Co-CEO, Valuation Research Corporation; Entertainment – Film & Music by David R. Dunn, Managing Partner, Shot Tower Capital and Travis Cloyd, CEO & Founder, Worldwide XR; and USPAP Update by R. Lee Robinette, ASA, President, Collateral Evaluation Associates, Inc.

Next were presentations that focused on: Intersection of Big Data and Patent Valuation by Michael Pellegrino, President, Pellegrino & Associates, LLC; Fair Value in Appraisal Rights Cases by David G. Clarke, ASA, Managing Principal, Griffing Group; and Reducing the Gap Between IVS and USPAP Practices by Jack Beckwith, ASA, CEA, President, EAGI.

The annual International Awards Luncheon followed these educational sessions. ASA International President Douglas Krieser presented the following awards:

ASA’s Chapter Member of the Year Award was given to Melanie Modica, ASA, ARM-PP and Pamela Bensoussan, ASA, ARM-PP from the Houston Chapter. The Chapter Education Event Award was designated for the ASA-NAIFA New Jersey Atlantic-Cape South Chapter and The Chapter Outreach Program Award for the Chicago Chapter. The Chapter of the Year Award was given to the Houston Chapter.

Next Krieser presented the Rising Star Award winners: Chelsey Janzen, ASA, Stella Law, ASA, Mack Mangan III, ASA, Lauren P. Miller, ASA, Mathew J. Muller, ASA, Carolina Rocha and Kathleen Turner.

Following that Krieser announced that the Board of Examiners recognized Paul D. Roberts, ASA, for the Examiner of the Year Award.

Next the NAIFA award winners were announced. The NAIFA Appraiser-of-the-Year Award was given to Sherrie Galderisi, ASA; the NAIFA Educator of the Year Award to Margaret Orman; and the NAIFA Paul Wetzel Award to Charles E. Blau, ASA, IFAC.

Lunch was served and following that Krieser returned to the stage to present the individual awards. The Jerry Larkins Volunteer Service Award was given to Juanita E. Addeo, ASA, MGA, and The Sylvia Wade Olson Award of Merit to Sabriya Tony.

Next, The Woman Appraiser of the Year Award was designated for Jamie Allen, ASA.

Following the awards presentation, Krieser recognized the current past ASA president Robert B. Morrison, ASA, IA. Then he asked the members of the Board of Governors in attendance to stand and be recognized.  Finally, he asked International Secretary Treasurer David Crick, ASA,  and International Vice President Lorrie Beamont, ASA, to stand.

Up next were the following sessions: FASB Update by Joy Sy, Supervising Project Manager, FASB; One Company, Four Offers by Chris M. Mellen, ASA, MCBA, CVA, ICVS, ABAR, CM&AA, Managing Director, Valuation Research Corporation; Across Disciplines: What Appraisers Should Know About Property Tax Appeal, by Mary O’Connor, ASA, CFE, Partner, Sikich LLP; Machine Learning: Overview and Valuation Use Case byChandu Chilakapati, Managing Director,  Alvarez & Marsal Valuation Services; Issues in Professional Sports Valuation byBryce Erickson, ASA, MRICS, Senior Vice President,  Mercer Capital; and Kevin G. Kane, ASA, CFA, CFO, Managing Director, Empire Valuation Consultants; Best Ways to Create a Strong Referral Network byJay E. Fishman, FASA, FRICS, Managing Director, Financial Research Associates; Z. Christopher Mercer, FASA, CFA, ABAR, Founder, Chief Executive Officer,  Mercer Capital; AICPA Valuation Guide – Applicability to Real EstatebyWilson McCauley , Manager,  EY LLP, and Sean A. McKee, National Audit Leader – Investment Management,  KPMG LLP; Same Facts, Different Answers byRussell Chapman, ASA, Director / Valuation Services, Duff & Phelps, Oksana Westerbeke, CFA, Principal, Grant Thornton, and Jason Andrews, Senior Director, Alvarez & Marsal Valuation Services LLC; and Engaging Millennials in the WorkplacebyDillon Knight Kalkhurst, Founder, The Center for Intergenerational Engagement.

The ASA’s Rising Stars event was held Monday evening. The reception gave attendees the opportunity to meet and network with other rising professionals in the appraisal industry.

The Educational Foundation Silent Auction and President’s Networking Reception also followed Monday’s educational classes in the evening. The auction was a huge success due to over 60 items being donated. With Dueling Pianos for entertainment, the auction and President’s Networking Reception concluded the first full day of the conference.

An Early Riser session: Collaboration for the Future was held Tuesday morning at 7:00 am. The participants in the discussion were: Johnnie White, MBA, CAE, CMP, CEO/Executive Vice President, American Society of Appraisers; Mary Jane Andrews, President & CEO, CBV Institute; Ray Moran, ASA, MRICS, CEO/MG Valuation, Chair, Marketing Committee/iiBV; and Neil Shah, Regional Managing Director, Americas, RICS.

Educational sessions began immediately after the Early Riser Session, namely: IRS Valuation Update – What Appraisers Need to Know by Cheryl Teifer, Director, Field Operations Engineering, Eastern Compliance Practice Area, LB&I Internal Revenue Service, and Frank Molinari, SRA, CVA, Appraisal Team Leader, Internal Revenue Service; A Holistic View of Small Stock Premiums by Adam Smith, ASA, Managing Director,  PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Anthony Pumphrey, ASA, CFA, Vice President, Valuation Research Corporation; How to Have More Influence and Impact in the Courtroom by Deborah Johnson, M.C., President, High-Stakes Communication, LLC; and The Effect of Size on Betas & Volatility byMarina Kagan, Director, Financial Analytics and Derivatives,  PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Next was round-table discussion: What Experts Need to Know: A View from the Bar and the Bench, featuring the Honorable Matthew F. Cooper, New York State Supreme Court Justice, New York Supreme Court, New York County; Allen E. Mayefsky, Esq., Aronson Mayefsky and Sloan LLP; Jay E. Fishman, FASA, FRICS, Managing Director, Financial Research Associates; and Kenneth J. Pia, Jr., ASA, CPA, ABV, MCBA, Partner-in-Charge, Business Valuation Services, Marcum LLP.

The following sessions were held after lunch: Firm Quality and Impact on the Size Effect by Roger J. Grabowski, FASA, Managing Director, Duff & Phelps; and Anas Aboulamer, Ph.D., Director of Research,  Duff & Phelps; Expert Witness: Know Your Audience by Joel Levin, Esq., Owner,  Levin & Associates Co., L.P.A.; Discount for Lack of Marketability When the Restriction Period Is Long by John D. Finnerty, Ph.D., Professor of Finance, Fordham University; Valuation of Hedge Fund Management Firms by Vladimir Korobov, ASA, CPA/ABV, Partner, Marcum LLP;  Technology for the Appraiser by Garrett Schwartz, ASA, CEA, Senior Equipment Appraiser, Sencer Appraisal Associates; Cost of Capital Data Choices: Duff & Phelps Navigator vs. BVResources Cost of Capital Professional byJames R. Hitchner, ASA, CPA/ABV/CFF; Valuing Debt in a Down Market — Implications From the New AICPA PE/VC Guide by Amanda A. Miller, Executive Director, Ernst & Young, LLP, and Shaan Elbaum,Managing Director, Valuation Services,  PricewaterhouseCoopers; and How to Overcome Common Obstacles to Marketing and Achieve Success by Mellanie Bartlett, Co-Owner, Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners, and Debby Sweeney, Co-Owner Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners.

ASA hosted a series of educational courses in New York City prior the Conference. The given courses were: Introduction to Business Valuation, Market Approach; Introduction to Business Valuation, Asset Approach, Discounts & Premiums; Introduction to Machinery and Equipment Valuation; Machinery & Equipment Valuation – Advanced Topics & Report Writing; Appraisal Review and Management Overview.

Those unable to attend the conference in person were able to sign up and view key sessions from the conference via live streaming online.

The American Society of Appraisers would like to thank the conference sponsors: Platinum: TagniFi, RICS, Gold: Knowcraft Analytics, Silver: Borrowman Baker LLC, BV Resources, Sweeney & Bartlett Marketing Partners, Inc., Bronze: Gem-A USA, Helivalue$, Inc., National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA), Exhibitors: Forensic Expert Witness Association (FEWA), NARMCO/Southeast Appraisal, Duff & Phelps, Crown of Light, RC Reports, GF Data Systems, Sectilis.

ASA would also like to thank the planning committee and advisors for all of their hard work and support: BV Conference Chair Jay E. Fishman, FASA, FRICS, Scott A. Nammacher, ASA, PJ Patel, ASA, CFA, Kenneth J. Pia, Jr., ASA, CPA, ABV, MCBA, Adam Smith, ASA.

Save the Date! Make plans to attend the 2020 ASA Business Valuation Conference in Chicago, October 11-13, 2020.

Check back here to see more conference photos—to be added soon

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SAN MARINO, CA–The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) is offering its course “Insurance, Appraisers & the Law” on Thursday, Oct. 10 – Friday, Oct. 11, 2019 at The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, CA.

ASA will subsequently offer “Appraising Fine Arts Overview,” also at The Huntington, on Saturday, Oct. 12-Sunday, Oct. 13. Students may take one or both courses.

SEE ALSO: Q & A with ‘Appraising Fine Arts Overview’ Instructor Lela Hersh, ASA

Nancy Martin, ASA, the course instructor, agreed to answer a few questions about “Insurance, Appraisers & the Law.”

ASA: Please tell us about the “Insurance, Appraisers & the Law” course.

“Due to the societal shifts that have changed the market for most personal property since the Great Recession, as well as the revisions to estate and income tax codes, loss claim work comprises a growing portion of our appraisal businesses. Appraisal reports prepared for loss claims (whether or not an insurance company is involved) are among the most scrutinized of our work products; it is not unusual for these appraisal reports to become the subject of an Appraisal Review, or for the disputes to proceed to mediation or arbitration, if not to court.

This course is team-taught by retired insurance law attorney Maila Putnam, JD, allowing us to offer the perspectives of both an attorney and an Accredited Senior Appraiser. We plan to address best practices for insurance coverage appraisals and appraisal reports prepared for loss claims.

We will also discuss the basic components of the insurance code (essentially consistent across all 50 states), insurance industry terminology, widely accepted court decisions and case law relevant to the insuring and appraising of Fine and Decorative Arts, and Gems and Jewelry. Participants will gain a strong foundation for producing a professional report that will not only withstand close examination, but also meet the needs of the parties involved.”

ASA: What’s unique about this course?

“Of particular interest will be our focused discussion on best practices through the review of actual appraisal reports prepared for loss claims. Also, of course, the location is not to be missed!”

ASA: Can you please tell us about the course location?

“The Huntington, currently celebrating its centennial, is renowned for its important collections of books and manuscripts, European and American art, furniture and decorations spanning more than 500 years, and more recently for its notable collections of American modern, contemporary and folk art.

The Huntington is situated on 120 acres of verdant botanical gardens. The library itself is comprised of more than 11 million items and is a resource serving thousands of scholars from around the world each year. Explore the Huntington’s website at: Huntington.org.

Additionally, the greater Pasadena area has other worthwhile museum collections to explore, including the world-class European and Southeast Asian art at the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, the USC Pacific Asia Museum also in Pasadena, the superb gems and minerals collection at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the varied collections at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, both of which are nearby in Los Angeles.

Between the art museums and the unique educational opportunities on offer, it’s definitely worth the trip to California.”

ASA: Who would benefit from taking this course?

“Practicing appraisers of personal property seeking to refine their skills and expand their practice in loss claims will benefit from taking the course.”

ASA: Where can we find more information on how to become an ASA Accredited Personal Property Appraiser?

“To find out how to become an ASA Accredited Personal Property Appraiser, visit: www.appraisers.org/Disciplines/Personal-Property. If you have questions about the course, please call 800-272-8258.”

Instructor Biographies:

Nancy Martin, ASA is an Accredited Senior Appraiser with specialties in Antiques & Decorative Arts, Residential Contents and Appraisal Review & Management. For the past 25 years, her firm has focused on disputes and controversial matters, including collaborative projects involving multiple appraisers and experts, most related to loss claims, both with and without insurance. Ms. Martin’s teaching background includes ten years as course co-developer and instructor in the UC Irvine Appraisal Studies program, including the American Society of Appraisers Principles of Valuation classes. She has co-authored the proficiency exams for both the Residential Contents and the Antiques and Decorative Arts disciplines of ASA, served on ASA’s International Board of Examiners and Personal Property Committee, and in various offices for the Los Angeles Chapter of ASA, including President of the Board of Directors.

Ms. Martin has held positions on the Board of Directors for the Frank Lloyd Wright Hollyhock House, the Decorative Arts Council at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 10 years as a docent in the American galleries at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California, and sat on several boards of advisors concerned with personal property, appraising and the arts.

Maila Putnam is an attorney licensed to practice in California, Oregon and Washington (inactive). For nearly 35 years, the focus of her career has been on property insurance coverage, including homeowners, commercial and auto insurance. She worked as a sole practitioner for the bulk of her career, during which time she took hundreds of Examinations Under Oath (EUOs) and rendered hundreds of coverage opinions. Thereafter, she worked as a coverage lawyer for a major national insurer,  providing “real time” coverage advice to claims personnel and rendering more than a thousand coverage opinions.

This will be the sixth time Ms. Putnam has participated in this course for ASA, previously as part of the UC Irvine Appraisal Studies program.

Photos: Copyright The Huntington Library

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By John Russell, J.D., ASA’s Senior Director of Government Relations and Business Development

Much has been discussed in the wake of the 9^th Circuit’s decision upholding the Tax Court opinion in Kollsman v. Commissioner, and how the decision impacts estate and gift valuations moving forward. While the practices of executors, attorneys, and accountants won’t change overnight because of Kollsman, the case does provide three good talking points for appraisers when explaining why an objective appraisal is the best choice in estate or gift situations.

• The Tax Court clearly held Wachter’s interest in consigning the paintings against him.

The simultaneous acts of providing an opinion of fair market value and offering to consign the works at auction worked to irreparably damage Wachter’s ability to posit an objective opinion of value. In fact, the court felt that Wachter had “a direct financial incentive to curry favor with Mr. Hyland by providing…’lowball’ estimates that would lessen the Federal estate tax burden…”[1] No matter what followed, it would be difficult if not impossible for Wachter to be perceived as neutral, disinterested, and objective – the most essential traits of a professional appraiser.

In talking about Kollsman, the need for objectivity in the valuation is the biggest takeaway. The other issues identified by the Tax Court with Wachter’s opinion could have been rectified at any point between the original valuation date and the subsequent litigation, but once compromised it is virtually impossible to reestablish objectivity. That’s not to say you can’t provide other related services to a client for whom you’ve completed an appraisal for IRS-related purposes; you can, but it’s best not to solicit those other services and instead rely on the client asking for those services only after you’ve completed your appraisal assignment. The murkier the timing or the more direct the solicitation, the closer you get to an objectivity problem.

• Diligence in obtaining “reasonable knowledge of relevant facts” matters.

The condition of the paintings in Kollsman was a significant factor identified by Wachter that, in his opinion, affected the value of the works. If true, then, why did Wachter not take the logical step of determining the costs and risks associated with restoring the paintings? That question clearly bothered the Tax Court, who not only pointed to the Estate Tax regulations in their opinion, but underscored the need to discover and investigate “those facts that a reasonable buyer or seller would uncover during the course of negotiations.”[2] To that end, the Tax Court found that “given the dirty condition of the paintings on the valuation date, a reasonable investigation into their values would involve at the very least seeking an opinion from a conservator about the risks and likely outcome of having them cleaned.”[3]

Appraisers who regularly perform tax related valuations not only understand relevant regulations, but legal precedents that can also affect their assignments. By explaining these relevant legal and regulatory requirements to potential clients, an appraiser not only establishes their own credibility, but makes clear that anything less than a competent professional appraiser performing the valuation injects the risk of overlooked or unknown elements that, if absent, can seriously undermine the legitimacy of an opinion of value.

• The days of “because I said so” are long gone.

On the issue of comparable sales and their use, the Tax Court was most pointed: “Mr. Wachter…has provided no comparables to support his valuations. This omission is remarkable. We have repeatedly found sale prices for comparable works quite important to determining the value of art.”[4]

The absence of such basic valuation tenets from a proffered valuation is a fatal flaw in the eyes of the Tax Court. It is essential for appraisers to substantiate their opinions, and be further prepared in the event the Service challenges their findings. Being able to explain to a potential client not only what the report will provide, but how the workfile requirements of USPAP afford further documentation with each assignment, provides one last key differentiator appraisers can lean on when explaining why their services are the right choice in estate and gift assignments.

 So Where does IRS Valuation Go From Here?

Clearly, the Tax Court was quick to point out the ways in which Wachter’s valuation fell short of their expectations. In many ways, the deficiencies in Wachter’s opinion are ones that, if we were dealing with a charitable contribution issue, would be covered by Section 170’s requirement for a “qualified appraisal.” His lack of impartiality from the outset, however, would fall short of meeting the “qualified appraiser” threshold. So – if the deficiencies identified by the Tax Court are, in large part, dealt with for charitable contributions – why not simply extend the requirements in charitable contribution to estate and gift? Not only would it provide more concrete expectations on both the professional and the product they deliver to both clients and the Service, it would eliminate the current two-tiered approach to valuation that currently exists. 

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[1] See Kollsman v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo. 2017-40 (filed February 22, 2017) at p. 20.

[2] Id. at p. 23, citing Bergquist v. Commissioner, 131 T.C. 8, 19 (2008)

[3] Id.

[4] Id. at 25.

About the Author: John Russell, ASA’s Senior Director of Government Relations and Business Development, is responsible for the advancement of legislative initiatives that benefit the American Society of Appraisers and its members and is responsible for seeking out opportunities to grow ASA’s influence, membership and revenue base in the U.S. and globally. He serves as the staff liaison to ASA’s PAC and Real Property Committee and is ASA’s representative to the Appraisal Foundation Advisory Committee. He has been with ASA for over 8 years. His vast government relations accomplishments, along with his educational background and nearly 10 years professional experience, provide ASA with valuable strategic insight on issues that impact the appraisal profession. He has a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Syracuse University College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcasting and Mass Communications from State University of New York at Oswego. Prior to ASA, John was a government relations advisor for the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA).

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PURCHASE, NY — The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) will offer its highly acclaimed Appraising Fine Arts Overview course at Purchase College, State University of New York (SUNY) on Saturday, September 14 – Sunday, September 15, 2019.

Located in Purchase, NY, Purchase College is tucked away on a 500-acre former estate in Westchester County, NY, about 30 miles from midtown Manhattan. The university’s unique campus was designed by master architect Edward Larrabee Barnes with colorful and diverse structures complete with classrooms, laboratories, performance spaces and studios. Interesting and creative works of art can be discovered and enjoyed while exploring the sprawling grounds.

The institution also boasts the Neuberger Museum of Art with collections of more than 6,000 works of uncompromised quality and variety, including prestigious examples of modern, contemporary and African art. Although presently temporarily closed for technology upgrades, the galleries are scheduled to reopen in September. Interested attendees are encouraged to confirm availability online or by phone (914) 251-6100. Complete details about Purchase College, including directions and parking, campus map or photo walk through are available online.

Appraising Fine Arts Overview will provide students with fundamental exploration of how professional personal property appraisers approach their work when appraising an object’s value. To find out more course specifics, please click here.

The Appraising Fine Arts Overview course instructor, Lela Hersh, ASA, of Museum of Fine Arts Consulting, LLC, is an Accredited Senior Appraiser with specialties in Fine Arts and Fine Arts Photography. Lela is also a museum consultant, art advisor, and researcher. She is a Senior Lecturer at the School of the Art Institute, Chicago, and is a 20-year veteran of the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, where she once served as their Director of Collections & Exhibitions. Currently Lela serves as the ASA Personal Property Discipline Governor.

ASA’s 15-Hour USPAP for Personal Property, Gems & Jewelry and Machinery & Technical Specialties will be offered at Purchase College on Thursday, Sept. 12 to Friday, Sept. 13. This is the National USPAP course developed specifically for users of Standards 7 and 8. This course will familiarize students with the recognized standards governing professional appraisals. This 15-hour National USPAP-PP course is approved by the Appraisal Standards Board of the Appraisal Foundation. For more information and to register, click here.

This class is offered through ASA’s University Partner Program in conjunction with Purchase College, State University of New York (SUNY). Class registration is handled through Purchase College – please click here to register.