Antique and Estate Appraisals
Certified estate appraisals for probate, insurance, donation, and resale planning.
Managing an estate often comes with important decisions that require clear and reliable information. Whether you are preparing for probate, reviewing insurance coverage, or planning to sell estate contents, accurate valuation is essential.
Visbids provides professional estate appraisals for antiques, collectibles, and household contents. Our reports are trusted by executors, families, lawyers, accountants, and insurers across Southern Ontario and are based on current market data, not assumptions.
What is Antique and Estate Appraisals About
Our estate appraisals provide certified, unbiased valuations for personal property and estate contents. Each report is prepared according to recognised standards and reflects real market conditions.
We support:
- estate executors and trustees
- families handling inherited property
- collectors and private owners
- legal and financial professionals
- individuals planning to sell or donate items
Every appraisal is tailored to its intended purpose, whether that involves legal documentation, insurance coverage, or resale planning.
When Estate Appraisals Are Needed
Different situations require different types of valuation. Our estate appraisals are structured based on how the information will be used.
Estate and Probate Appraisals
For estate settlement, an accurate valuation is required to support probate and asset distribution. We provide documented and certified appraisals that reflect fair market value and meet legal requirements.
Insurance Appraisals
Insurance-related estate appraisals determine replacement value for coverage or claims. Our reports help ensure that valuable items are properly documented and insured.
Donation and Tax Appraisals
When items are donated to charitable institutions, a formal appraisal is often required for tax purposes. We prepare appraisals that meet accepted documentation standards.
Pre-Sale and Auction Valuations
If you are planning to sell estate contents, we provide market-based guidance to help you understand what items may achieve through auction or resale. This supports informed decision-making before moving forward.
What We Appraise
Our estate appraisal services cover a wide range of personal property, including:
- antiques and period furniture
- fine art and original works
- jewellery and watches
- silver and decorative objects
- vintage toys and collectibles
- clocks and timepieces
- textiles and folk art
- general household contents
- estate collections and mixed lots
If you are unsure whether your items are suitable, we are happy to review them and provide guidance.
Our Process
We follow a structured process to ensure every appraisal is clear, accurate, and professionally documented.
1. Initial Consultation
We begin by understanding your needs, the purpose of the estate appraisal, and the scope of items involved.
2. Item Review
Items are reviewed in person at your home, at our Brantford or Milton facilities, or virtually where appropriate.
3. Research and Valuation
We document each item and determine value using comparable sales, current market data, and professional expertise.
4. Report Delivery
You receive a written estate appraisal prepared for its intended use, whether for probate, insurance, donation, or personal records.
If any items have limited or no market value, we provide clear and honest feedback.
Why Choose Visbids
Visbids provides estate appraisals backed by experience, certification, and real market knowledge.
Our appraisers are accredited members of the Canadian Personal Property Appraisers Group and follow recognised industry standards. Reports are accepted by legal, insurance, and financial institutions.
With over 60 years of combined experience in antiques, estate services, and auctions, we base our estate and antique appraisals on actual sales data rather than outdated pricing or assumptions.
Our work is independent and unbiased. We are not affiliated with dealers and do not purchase items we appraise, ensuring that every antique valuation remains objective.
Pricing and How It Works
Fees for appraisals depend on the scope and purpose of the assignment.
For smaller requests, a flat rate may apply. Larger estate appraisals are quoted based on the time required for inspection, research, and reporting.
We provide clear pricing before starting any work.
Verbal consultations may be available when formal documentation is not required, though these are not suitable for legal or insurance purposes.
If you choose to sell estate items through our auction services, fee arrangements can be discussed during your consultation.
Where We Operate
Visbids serves the Greater Toronto Area, Golden Horseshoe, and much of Southern Ontario.
With locations in Brantford and Milton, we support clients from Niagara to Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Hamilton, Oakville, Barrie, and east toward Cobourg.
For larger estates or institutional assignments, we may travel beyond this region on a case-by-case basis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of items do you appraise?
We appraise antiques, fine art, jewellery, silver, furniture, collectibles, and general household contents. If you are unsure, we can review your items and advise.
Are your appraisals certified?
Yes. All appraisals are prepared by accredited members of the Canadian Personal Property Appraisers Group and meet standards accepted by legal, insurance, and tax professionals.
What is the difference between a formal appraisal and a verbal estimate?
A formal appraisal includes written documentation and research and is used for legal, insurance, or tax purposes. A verbal estimate provides general guidance but is not suitable for formal use.
Do you offer virtual appraisals?
Yes, in some cases. For smaller or remote requests, we can review items through detailed photographs. In-person inspection is usually required for formal documentation.
How long does the process take?
Smaller appraisals can be completed within a few days. Larger estate or collection reports may take up to two weeks, depending on complexity.
Can I sell my items after the appraisal?
Yes. If you decide to sell, we can guide you through consignment, online auction, or private sale options, depending on the items.