THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL BLOG

BAD CARFAX? CAR OWNERS IN FLORIDA CAN RECOVER THEIR AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE.

Florida's best kept secret
http://florida-appraiser-classic-auto-truck.blogspot.com/2012/05/bad-carfax-car-owners-in-florida-can.html

FORT PIERCE, Florida - What do you suppose is the most closely-kept secret in Florida? So guarded and hush-hush, that there are no articles in newspapers about it nor can one find a reference to it in any library. It is a basic right afforded to all insurance consumers yet insurance companies would rather not share the information. And the most amazing thing isn't that the general public has been kept in the dark - that's probably to be expected - it's that most of the people directly affected by it haven't a clue themselves. The secret is called "Automobile Diminished Value" and what it means is that Floridians whose cars have been repaired after collision accidents can recover all or part of their vehicle's resultant loss in value from the at-fault driver's insurance company. A bad CARFAX means, when it comes time to trade-in or sell your car, you'll find that it's worth thousands less than fair market value - sometimes tens of thousands less. If the accident was your fault, you may deduct a portion of the car's loss in value from your federal income tax. Not only don't you know about Automobile Diminished Value, half of Florida's insurance agents and brokers either don't know or pretend not to know themselves. The biggest surprise is that many used car managers at Florida's car dealerships - the one's you'll most likely hear the "bad carfax = bad news" from - seldom let their dissappointed customers know that there is hope for them. After all, many potential new car buyers, after learning their trade-in is worth thousands less, decide to keep their cars, ultimately costing that dealership a sale.

One of our clients wrote a letter of thanks to us and agreed to let us print it. It speaks directly to what this article is about.

From: cchannon

Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2012 6:43 PM

To: 'contac@stlucieappraisal.net'

Subject: Automobile Diminished Value claim

Frank:

Just FYI: I settled with Progressive for about $3700. It took a little talking, since they started with a low ball offer of 2K, but I assured them I would be happy to take up their time in small claims court. I decided not to go for a whole lot more, since I received a couple of comparison estimates from one of the online "diminished value specialists" of anywhere from 2K to 3.5K. The body shop (Collision Professionals) ball park was about 3K.

I think it helped that you were local, and had local used car dealer confirmations. I think that if I had "adjusted" your appraisal I might have gotten a few dollars more, but that would not have been honest or fair to you and your efforts.

Bottom line, I think I was made pretty much whole in the deal, even though it stinks to have a new car hit. By the way, I can also recommend the "Collision Professionals" as a body shop that does nice work, and seems to take pride in their product.

Just as I said, I would complete the Angie's list evaluation, and you can use me as a reference if the occasion comes up. Please feel free to publish the letter in your blog. I have found that few people know about the "Diminished Value" aspect of auto accidents. While not everyone's case is amenable to a settlement, certainly many are, and those people should be compensated.

Best regards.

Chris Channon

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

_______________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, Lakeland, Panama City, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Key West, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Lake City, Sebring, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: automobile, diminished value, florida, carfax, bad carfax, insurance, collision, accident, repair, agent, broker, dealership, trade-in value, fair market value, progressive

Date Published:

FINANCING OR INSURING CUSTOM TRUCKS, TRACTORS AND TRAILERS? APPRAISING HEAVY EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT FLORIDA.

Appraisers - Custom Tractors and Trailers
http://florida-appraiser-classic-auto-truck.blogspot.com/2012/04/financing-or-insuring-custom-trucks.html

ORLANDO, Florida - Customizing your semi truck adds value to it. When it comes time to finance or insure your rig, coming up with an accurate replacement cost is essential. Custom paint, chrome, exhaust and other accessories are popular upgrades but many owner-operators are taking it many steps further by taking proactive steps to increase efficiency, maximize payload and enhance performance. Full frame-off rebuilds using hi-tensile frame rails are being done to Peterbilt, Kenworth, Mack, Freightliner and International trucks. Body upgrades like suicide doors, window kits and chopped cabs cost money so they must be listed in your appraisal report. Inside the truck, custom LED dashboards and refurbished sleepers now offer real home-away-from-home comfort. Expensive electronics are becoming almost standard items in all heavy trucks. Custom trailers are rarer but owners are increasingly becoming interested in aerodynamics, improving braking distance, flooring upgrades and new hydraulics. A valuation appraisal from a Florida state-licensed appraiser presents your bank, credit-union or insurance company with the comprehensive picture you need to guarantee a positive outcome whether obtaining a loan or a replacement cost insurance policy.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

____________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: truck, heavy, custom, custom truck, Corvette Club of South Florida, appraisal, appraiser, peterbilt, kenworth, freightliner, international, mack, tractor, trailer, financing, insurance, replacement cost, bank, credit union, insurance company

Date Published: Apr 16, 2012 - 5:42 am

AUTO DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIMS IN FLORIDA - NOT JUST FOR BENTLEY, MERCEDES-BENZ AND PORSCHE OWNERS

The Bentley Azure in Florida
http://florida-appraiser-classic-auto-truck.blogspot.com/2012/02/auto-diminished-value-claims-in-florida.html

MIAMI - In Florida, if an automobile was repaired as a result of an accident that was the fault of a third-party, consumers may make a claim for Diminished Value. In short, diminished value means that your car, because it now has a bad CARFAX, is worth less. How much less depends on the type of car, how badly damaged, etc. Consumers of high-end cars such as Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche tend to be more discriminating and usually won't buy a vehicle that was repaired. Diminished Value can result in 50% of the vehicle's value lost. A licensed appraiser can provide a report detailing exactly how much less your vehicle is worth. While a diminished value appraisal is a basic requirement, do you also need an attorney? Keeping in mind the fact that insurance companies in Florida have been very hush-hush regarding a consumer's rights to make auto diminished value claims, expect them not to jump for joy when they receive yours. Simply put, if you are dealing with an insuror who handles claims in a fair manner you won't need to be represented by a lawyer.

Car been in a collision that was the fault of the other driver? Was your automobile repaired? Look up your vehicle's trade-in value and deduct a minimum of fifteen percent - that figure represents the diminished value. In Florida, you can get it back.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

_____________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: appraisal, appraiser, attorney, automobile, Bentley, diminished value, florida, lawyer, licensed, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, represented, st. lucie appraisal, Rolls-Royce

Date Published: Feb 14, 2012 - 6:15 am

BUYING & SELLING A CLASSIC AND CUSTOM CAR, HEAVY TRUCK OR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IN FLORIDA? BE SURE TO HAVE IT APPRAISED OR INSPECTED.

THE ST LUCIE APPRAISAL CO - FORT PIERCE FLORIDA
http://florida-appraiser-classic-auto-truck.blogspot.com/2012/02/buying-selling-classic-and-custom-car.html

FORT PIERCE - Tough economic times right now in South Florida, classic and custom cars are selling for rock bottom prices. Even trucks and construction equipment sales are flat revealing a buyers’ market. We have been swamped with requests for condition reports from out-of-state and international buyers. It’s not only antique cars but many race car collectors and enthusiasts have been availing themselves of our inspection service.
ST LUCIE APPRAISAL is not only Florida’s premier valuation service, our expertise in spotting flaws and other examples of poor workmanship generates many requests for auto, truck and heavy equipment condition reports.

Whether we’re inspecting an inventory of construction cranes or a rare prototype race car, attention to detail is our primary objective. It’s an incomparably dismal feeling to see your new hundred-thousand dollar investment for the first time as it rolls off the car carrier, only to realize you’ve been had. It almost never makes sense not to spend a few hundred dollars for a vehicle condition report. Buying something sight unseen is always risky. Hiring an appraiser is an inexpensive way to limit your liability.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

_______________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: South Florida, Florida, classic car, custom car, antique car, sell, buy, sales, sell, trucks, construction equipment, condition, appraisal, report, heavy equipment, market, valuation, inventory, cranes, prototype, race car, vehicle, collector, inspection

Date Published: Feb 03, 2012 - 7:28 am

TRUCKERS AND CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY - HOW AN OWNER OPERATOR CAN KEEP HIS TRUCK

TRUCKERS & BANKRUPTCY
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

MIAMI - If you are an owner operator who is behind in payments, filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can give you a chance to keep making your payments and keep your truck from being repossessed. If you are facing a threat of repossession from your truck finance company, a Chapter 13 filing can save your means of earning a living. Most lenders would rather be receiving regular payments from a working trucker than initiating repossession proceedings. If your truck is repossessed and put up for auction, however, the sale price will probably be less than the balance owed. Your lender can then sue you for the difference. Very often, the answer is to obtain a valuation appraisal from a licensed appraiser. In Florida, appraisers are licensed by The Department of Financial Services.

There are a few significant hurdles. Banks, credit unions and other finance companies often have an unrealistic idea of heavy equipment values. In all fairness, your banker can't actually see the minor damages, wear and tear or items that will soon be needing replacement or repair. When you present an appraisal to the bankruptcy court, a magistrate then gets a better idea of the trucks true value. Paying thousands of dollars more than your truck is worth is fiscally unsound but many owner operators are forced to do just that just to keep their trucks. A competent Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney will be able to guide you through the maze of rebuilding both your credit and your livelihood as a trucker. A well-written appraisal that reflects the true value of your heavy equipment is the first step toward fulfilling that goal.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

_______________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Date Published: Jan 27, 2012 - 1:22 pm

NEWS FROM THE CORVETTE CLUB OF SOUTH FLORIDA

http://stlucieappraisal.net/

Coconut Creek, FL - Saturday March 3, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM – Rain or Shine, Corvette Club of South Florida's 1st annual Corvette and Open Car & Truck Show sponsored by LOU BACHRODT CHEVROLET of Coconut Creek Dealership – 5500 North State Road 7 (441), Coconut Creek, FL (on 441 just South of the Sawgrass Expressway). Registration fee is $20 if registered by February 25, 2012 or $25 on day of show. Registration closes at 2:30 PM.

Awards include for each category (Corvettes and Open Cars & Trucks):

40 Best of Show, $100 Club Participation (min. 10 cars), $50 Lou Bachrodt Choice. We will also have 10 Specialty Awards.

Entertainment by Live DJ "Scott The Music Man", food & drinks are available on location, door prizes, vendors, 50-50 drawing & more. SPECIAL! Two 40 minute shows featuring "The Blues Brothers".

Net Proceeds from this show will benefit Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital.

For Information please visit our website: http://www.corvetteclubofsouthflorida.com/ or contact our members in Broward County (954) 481-9763 or Palm Beach Country (561) 477-3551.

Everyone is invited!

Date Published: Jan 10, 2012 - 3:46 pm

AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE IN FLORIDA - HOW YOUR APPRAISER, LAWYER AND EXPERT WITNESS AFFECT YOUR LOSS OF VALUE CASE AGAINST AN INSURANCE COMPANY

Automobile Diminished Value
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

MIAMI - If your automobile is damaged in a collision that was the fault of another driver, according to Florida laws you are entitled to make a claim for Automobile Diminished Value. Most consumers know that the adverse insurance company's claim center will pay for repairing your car but most are oblivious to the fact that they can get compensation for the car's loss of value. When it comes time to sell or trade-in your car, you'll likely receive a minor shock when you discover that a dirty Carfax is now permanently attached to it. The news probably won't be good. Sometimes consumers face losses of value in the thousands of dollars. The only remedy is to file an Automobile Diminished Value claim in a timely manner. Whether to hire a lawyer is a different issue but you are definitely going to need a licensed appraiser. Make sure that your appraiser is from Florida because if you come up against an unscrupulous insurance company, you'll need him as an expert witness. One last piece of advice - at St. Lucie Appraisal, we contact individual new car dealerships to obtain actual quotes regarding your vehicle's loss of value. Beware of lawyers and appraisers who prepare their reports using formulas or specialized software. Insurors can and will dispute those types of evaluation methods. Actual opinions of the dealers who actually buy automobiles aren't so easy to challenge.

Attorneys don't always have your best interests at heart so good references are a must. Recently we inspected an automobile with heavy collision damage; front, center and rear, that should have been considered a total loss by the insurance company. Totalling the car would have resulted in the owner's receiving the fair market value from the insuror instead of having to endure a Carfax and fight for loss of value. The attorney, however, tried to convince the owner not to demand that the insuror total the car. Of course, the man fired his lawyer on the spot. It was quite transparent that a diminished value claim would have resulted in a fee for the attorney while a total loss result would not. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company handles Automobile Diminished Value claims in Florida only because if we need to appear as a licensed expert witness, we can. Florida's insurance consumers have choices after a collision loss. Either hire an unlicensed, out-of-area lawyer or appraiser who uses "specialized software" or hire us.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

_______________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00

All other services including trial prep and additional appraisal time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: automobile, collision, consumer, diminished value, Florida, law, lawyer, license, St. Lucie Appraisal, insurance company, Carfax, Miami

Date Published: Dec 09, 2011 - 3:06 pm

AUTOMOBILE, TRUCK AND PERSONAL PROPERTY APPRAISER IN MIAMI, FL - ART, ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES - FDFS LICENSED, INSURED

Auto, Truck and Personal Property Appraisers in Miami
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

MIAMI - Over the years, numerous people have called our office, which is located in Fort Pierce, Florida asking "Do you go to Miami?" What, pass up a chance to visit South Beach, Coconut Grove and Little Havana? Maybe take in a Miami Marlins game before heading home....So of course, our answer is, "of course we go to Miami. What is it that you need appraised?" Whether you need an appraisal for financing, insurance, donations, bankruptcy or estate matters, we go to Miami! If you are the owner or potential buyer of an antique or custom car, heavy truck, motorcycle or RV - or need appraiser help with diminished value, we go to Miami! All types of collectibles from art & antiques to sports memorabilia to personal property that needs to be appraised in South Florida - we go to Miami!

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00

All other services including trial prep and additional appraisal time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: licensed, appraiser, automobile, truck, personal property, miami, florida, art, antiques, collectibles, insured, financing, insurance, donation, bankruptcy, estate, motorcycle, RV, diminished value

Date Published: Nov 10, 2011 - 5:15 am

BOOK VALUES AND BANKRUPTCY - CAR TALK WITH YOUR FLORIDA ATTORNEY

Florida Bankruptcy
Appraisers
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

FORT LAUDERDALE - All of us have purchased a new or used car. Do you remember if you offered the seller more than the asking price? Of course, the answer is that you distinctly recall NOT offering more than the asking price. So why, in your Florida bankruptcy proceeding, would you pay perhaps thousands more for the car that's currently parked in your driveway?

Certain things in your life are necessary to start the rebuilding process and one of them is your automobile. Neither you nor your Florida bankruptcy attorney gets to say what your car's Fair Market Value is. In all cases, someone at the bankruptcy court will assign a dollar value to your car, often obtained from sources such as Kelley Blue Book or the NADA Guide. Sometimes the courts determinations far exceed what you know the car is worth if you had to sell it.

When that happens, your lawyer will request that you obtain an FMV evaluation from a Florida licensed appraiser. But bear this in mind, even when the court's assessment seems in line with what your bankruptcy attorney feels the car is worth, you are still going to pay more than the car's Fair Market Value.

The sad truth is that the used car market simply doesn't esteem cars and trucks as highly as the guide books do. Add to that the oil leak, the rip in the driver's seat and the various dings and scratches - all things that are not considered by the court in making their determination - you've talked yourself into buying a car for what could be a lot more than it's worth. Whether your bankruptcy is taking place in a big city like Miami or a rural town like Stuart, the same formula applies.

I will leave Florida's consumers and Florida bankruptcy attorneys with a final analysis. Appraisals done of late-model cars, exotics and most high-end vans and SUVs will show the most divergence from standard book values - almost always in the thousands of dollars. In the case of a typical compact or mid-size car or other vehicles that are older, an average difference is more like $750-$1000.

Our fee schedule appears below. You do the math.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

______________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services including trial prep and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: appraiser, attorney, automobile, BANKRUPTCY, book value, car, consumer, court, fair market value, florida, Fort Lauderdale, Kelley Blue Book, lawyer, licensed, Miami, NADA, Stuart, USED CAR, value

Date Published: Oct 01, 2011 - 10:20 am

APPRAISING ANTIQUE CARS AT SOUTH FLORIDA'S CLASSIC CAR DEALERSHIPS - THE FEAR FACTOR

Fargo's Jerry Lundegaard
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

BOCA RATON - Sometimes I can sense the fear while walking through front doors of some of South Florida's antique and custom car dealerships. Nobody looks a car over better than an appraiser - and I am a very critical appraiser. A salesman hawking a street rod in Fort Lauderdale once went so far as name me "The Deal-Killer." Yet many of these same dealers continue to recommend St. Lucie Appraisal to their out-of-town buyers when they request independent appraisals or condition reports.

In the past, my attention to detail has conflicted with a dealership's primary goal which is to sell antique and custom automobiles. I see my job as advising buyers on potential risks so they can make an informed business decision on whether or not to go forward with a transaction. Small details sometimes become the devil in the deal meaning occasionally my input results in a lost sale for them. So why do these South Florida auto dealers continue to recommend us as appraisers from Miami to Melbourne? The reason is because we also recognize quality and when our appraisal reflects that, it is a huge aid in helping them to sell the car.

Antique auto collectors from around the world often find themselves considering cars located in sunny Florida. Most are savvy enough not to buy - and then ship - expensive classic cars sight unseen. Seeking advice from an expert makes financial sense. A true advisor isn't doing his job if he isn't pointing out potential traps, pitfalls, and problems. If the car is advertised as a "daily driver", my informing a buyer of small imperfections won't lead to the collapse of a sale. But if the car is advertised as a professionally restored antique car, my noting a litany of small issues could lead to drastic price reduction - or a blown deal.

Five times as often as not, I'm happy to say, the classic cars we appraise or perform condition reports on are accurately described in their advertisements. Antique car dealers who take the time to micro-inspect classic cars for imperfections, maintenance or repair problems have nothing to fear from me. As for those auto dealers who might be looking to ship a Florida lemon to an unsuspecting buyer in Texas or Australia, keep your fingers crossed that your customer doesn't hire me, your old friend, "The Deal-Killer."

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

______________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services including trial prep and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Date Published: Aug 24, 2011 - 6:42 pm

ADVOCATES FOR AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE

Auto Diminished Value Experts

http://stlucieappraisal.net/

TAMPA - Advertisements can be misleading as we all know, and they include ads we find on the internet regarding Auto Diminished Value appraisals and Diminished Value experts. The allure of free advertising enables companies to throw all sorts of things at us. In Florida, we have more than our share of scammers and charlatans. Lately a number of web sites, blogs, Craigslist-type ads, etc. are describing themselves as "advocates."

The general perception is that an advocate represents us free or for a minimal charge. It is a resource to advance a social or public policy initiative and gives a voice to citizen interests. A consumer advocate seeks to remedy injustices in the market place, also to teach consumers to stand up for themselves. Funded by governments or privately, these people and organizations are who we turn to for help, especially when the waters get murky - as is definitely the case with Automobile Diminished Value.

At St. Lucie Appraisal, we are advocates for fair and equitible treatment in Automobile Diminished Value cases. Our compensation is both financially and professionally rewarding. If a company is masquerading as something else, either the service stinks or their fees are out of line, sometimes both. These less-than-forthcoming advertising techiques occur mainly with attorneys but other types of businesses do it too.

Our Auto Diminished Value reports are available to anyone in Florida whose late model car or truck was damaged through someone's negligence, then repaired. The loss of trade-in value - even though you may not actually be trading the car in - is known as diminished value. Insurance companies don't like paying for it but it's the law and you are entitled to compensation.

How much compensation? That depends on many factors, all of which weigh into the insurance adjuster's decision about how much to pay you. Each insurance company has their own formula that takes into consideration things like whether the frame or unibody was damaged, whether the vehicle was towed, year, make and model of car, etc. Unfortunately, low-ball methods based on formulas such as Georgia's Rule 17C have demonstrably proven their inadequacy. Also unfortunate is the fact that most Auto Diminished Value Appraisal firms take a similar easy way out by adopting their own formulas for determining diminished value. So how does St. Lucie Appraisal determine the amount of diminished value?

Only one indicator can be considered relevant - how much less the dealer will offer for your trade-in as a result of a dirty CARFAX report. The only reliable method for determing diminished value is to call the dealers for their opinions. Using a formula saves a lot of time but as many people are learning, insurance companies show little respect for Automobile Diminished Value reports done in this manner - even by advocates. It is formula vs. formula.

To cite an example, whereas a repaired unibody can count heavily toward how much net worth is lost from a Chevrolet or Toyota - the resultant diminished value can be as much as 50% of the trade-in value - any Porsche dealer will tell you that, even without unibody damage, buyers avoid repaired Porsches like the plague. An insurance adjuster will point to the absence of frame and unibody repairs when he or she offers you a fraction of what your claim is worth. It is unfortunate that Automobile Diminished Value advocates utilizing formulas will probably agree, leaving consumers as the ultimate losers. You'll collect something, but it won't be enough. Your car is now under water.

Insurance companies can not so readily dismiss an Automobile Diminished Value report prepared by St. Lucie Appraisal. We work hard to come up with accurate numbers. Our reports, compiled through exhaustive telephone research, reflect the accuracy of the used car market. They also force insurance companies to either do the same research or explain why they refused to do so.

Is St. Lucie Appraisal the best Automobile Diminished Value appraiser in the business? Most insurors in Florida will agree that we are the gold standard. We are licensed as adjusters and appraisers by the State of Florida Department of Consumer Affairs while most DV appraisers are not.

Florida Statute 626.855 defines a “RESIDENT INDEPENDENT ADJUSTER” as any person who is self-employed or is associated with or employed by an independent adjusting firm or other independent adjuster, and who undertakes to ascertain and determine to amount of the claim, loss, or damage payable under an insurance contract or undertakes to effect settlement of such claim, loss or damage.

And when it comes to your right to fair compensation for Automobile Diminished Value, we are your biggest advocates - even if we don't come right out and say so.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

______________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services including trial prep and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

Expert Witness - Court Appearances, Depositions, Mediation $225/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Antiques, Collectibles & Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

Date Published: Jul 31, 2011 - 8:33 am

SAVING THE WORLD FROM BUYING CRAPPY CARS

BUYING A USED CAR IN FLORIDA?
HAVE IT APPRAISED.
http://stlucieappraisal.net

MIAMI - Good advice for long-distance buyers of antique, custom, exotic or otherwise modified cars in Florida - hire an appraiser, a mechanic, a body shop, a towing company, auto detailer, glass installer or other automobile-related person to at least inspect the car before you make that purchase. Buying a car sight-unseen is a tentative proposition at best. When the vehicle is twenty or more years old with potential for unseen damages, improper repairs and modifications, etc., it can turn into a horrible nightmare.

Yesterday, I was given an assignment to perform a condition inspection on an antique Thunderbird convertible. The classic car was located at a Florida auto dealer that specializes in fine antique and custom cars. Over the last few years I've had the pleasure of inspecting and/or appraising numerous dream cars at their location. So, naturally, I expected to see a real nice survivor-type piece.

This condition report was being done on behalf of a fellow from Chicago who later told me that he made the decision to hire an appraiser at the last minute. The T-Bird was all but loaded onto the car carrier when he made the call. To make a long story short, I'm certain that the buyer would have had a heart attack when he took delivery of this absolute disaster of an antique car. While I was making my notes I realized that this sort of thing happens every day.

Getting back to my sage advice regarding having someone - anyone - look at a classic, exotic or custom car before buying and costly shipping, even a non-expert would have noticed three inches of water in the trunk, inner door panels attached via Swingline staples, that most of the lamps and signals didn't work, the dead battery, the A/C not working, dry rot in the six-year old tires, the pitted interior trim, broken seat handles and the surface rust. An expert would find many more deficiencies but by this time the buyer's decision had already been made so my work was done. Disappointed at not finding his dream car and perhaps angry at the seller for misleading advertising, his most overwhelming emotion, nonetheless was joy. Because spending $225 for an appraiser beats spending $18,000 for a piece of junk any day.

The salesman explained that the Thunderbird was a consignment and that he was unaware of the extensive problems the car had. Seems unlikely because they photographed the car from every conceivable angle for their eBay advertisement. The ad contained close-ups of everything with the exception of the funky stuff! Small consolation for the guy in Chicago who might have bought the car sight-unseen.

A last word about purchasing antique and custom cars and trucks in Florida. Private sellers have also become adept at photographing and describing vehicles to their best advantage. One selling point I commonly see being used is a quotation of the insured value. Very reassuring to know that an insurance company has such a high regard for the car. However, and this has become a typical theme, antique cars covered by specialty insurors like Hagerty, Grundy, Condon & Skelly and American Collectors who operate on the honor system, over-insure most of their cars. Antique car owners simply tell these specialty insurors what they feel the car is worth and, as long as book values bear them out, policies are written on that basis alone. More than half of the appraisals of antique and custom cars insured by these companies aren't worth near their insured value. Buying a car that's covered by a small specialty insuror? Caveat Emptor.....

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

__________________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Auto/Truck/RV Condition Reports $225.00 and Up

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00 and Up

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Collectibles and Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

Date Published: Jul 21, 2011 - 2:37 pm

FINANCING TRUCKS, TRAILERS AND CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IN FLORIDA

Appraisers of Construction Equipment

http://stlucieappraisal.net/

FORT PIERCE - These days it is common knowledge that obtaining loans from banks and credit unions is nearly impossible. Most licensed truck and heavy construction equipment appraisers who provide fair market values for financing and insurance have seen a drop in business - St. Lucie Appraisal is no exception. Even with adequate collateral, you'll find even the most accommodating of lenders have become reluctant to part with their money. The ability to borrow for new machinery or to simply stave off bankruptcy is important. So when businesses in Florida looking to expand need additional funding, how should they go about obtaining the needed capital?

Borrowing on business equipment such as trucks, trailers and construction machinery is the preferred route. As long as the books show that the company is profitable, a bank or credit union looks favorably on those with solid collateral. But there's more that can be done to make lenders feel warm and fuzzy about lending you money. Find a licensed appraiser and get a Fair Market Value appraisal. Additionally, make sure the appraiser has expertise in the type of equipment or other goods you want evaluated.

We recently got a request from a lender in South Florida asking us to appraise the value of a number of construction cranes. After receiving the assignment, we worked with the owner of the construction company to make sure we evaluated the equipment properly and reported our findings promptly to the lender. After receiving word that their loan had gone through, the owner called to thank us for helping to save their company.

We get paid for our services, of course, but no financial compensation could be more satisfying as hearing something like that.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

______________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Financing, Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Collectibles and Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

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Keywords for this article: appraisal, bank, bankruptcy, construction, crane, credit union, equipment, fair market value, finance, florida, fort pierce, insurance, licensed appraiser, loan, machinery, st lucie appraisal, trailer, truck

Date Published: Jun 19, 2011 - 3:06 pm

TOTAL LOSSES AND DIMINISHED VALUE - DISPUTING AN INSURANCE COMPANY'S UNFAIR SETTLEMENT OFFER - WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES?

FLORIDA APPRAISERS
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

MIAMI - It's not only folks like you and I who are tightening our belts these days. Businesses both large and small have also been forced to cut costs. Here in Florida we have felt the effects more than in other parts of the country. Unfortunately, in the case of insurance company claims adjusters, a major focus is on keeping a very strict eye on claims payouts. Auto body shops are generally the victims of cost cutting but when your own automobile or truck is totalled, the victim becomes you. Using updated formulas and guidelines, the insurers' goal is to offer the smallest settlement amount possible for your total loss or diminished value vehicle. The days when simple book values used to serve as measuring sticks for guaging the value of a car, truck, RV or motorcycle are gone. In their place are computerized reports sometimes using completely unrelated or undocumented vehicles from places halfway around the country as examples. Diminished Value claimants are also virtually assured of coming across an insurance adjuster with charts that show how certain types of damage repairs more-or-less affect the amount of Diminished Value sustained. Tell that to your automobile dealer come trade-in time. And if you've done any custom work to your car, truck or RV, chances are the insurer will only be willing to offer a fraction of what would be fair compensation no matter how many invoices and estimates you provide. Should you dispute the insurance company's settlement offer? Are they guilty of unfair claim practices? Should you hire an independent appraiser to determine the value?

Insurers who are guilty of unfair claims practices are sometimes made to pay dearly when matters proceed to trial. At the very least, simply to avoid paying their lawyers, an insurance company is more likely to settle with a claimant who has presented a properly-prepared appraisal from a licensed independent appraisal firm. In Florida, The Department of Financial Services can provide a list of names. In other states where appraisers are licensed, check with that state's Insurance Department.

High value cars and trucks are where the greatest disparities between low ball settlement offers and fair market values are found. The difference can reach tens of thousands of dollars, especially where modified and luxury cars, heavy trucks and upgraded RVs are concerned.

Compared to high end vehicles and RVs, typical total loss and Diminished Value claims involving passenger cars, small trucks and SUVs are far more numerous. While it would seem that agreeing on these fair market values would be relatively simple, the opposite is true. The gaps between insurance company settlement offers and fair market values shrink somewhat on these vehicles but claims adjusters are every bit as diligent at saving a few bucks for the company. When your car is being repaired, your body shop does the negotiating. But when the claim involves a total loss or diminished value, you're on your own. Taking care not to cross the line into unfair claims practices, many insurers simply use the valuation sources that provide the least compensation as guidelines for making their settlement offers. It is up to you, the consumer, to do some homework. Obtaining the approximate value of your vehicle is easy with all of the online resources available. Still not getting any satisfaction? Put a State of Florida licensed independent appraiser to work for you.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

__________________________________________

http://stlucieappraisal.net/
AUTO & PERSONAL PROPERTY
SERVICE THROUGHOUT SOUTH FLORIDA

Our service area includes St. Lucie, Martin, Indian River, Brevard, Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties. Cities include Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Tamarac, Sunrise, Lauderhill, Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Hollywood, Hallandale, Miami, Opa Locka, Hialeah, Coral Gables, Kendall and Homestead.

Diminished Value Appraisals throughout Florida including, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Pensacola, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Clearwater, Kissimmee, Melbourne, Daytona Beach, Ocala, Gainsville, Bradenton, Titusville, Panama City, Bonita Springs, Naples, St. Petersburg and Tallahassee.

Our rates for services are as follows:

Auto Appraisals (Donations, Bankruptcy, Divorce, Insurance Disputes) $125.00

Stated Value Appraisals (Antique & Classic Cars, Street Rods, Motorcycles, RVs, Trucks) $175.00

Diminished Value Appraisals (Determines how much less your car is worth after accident repairs) $225.00

Personal Property Appraisals (Contents, Collectibles, Art, Antiques) $225.00

All other services and additional time when necessary $75/Hr.

You may obtain appraisals for Charitable Donation Tax Credits, Collateral, Damage Claims, Equitable Distribution, Bankruptcy, Estates, Insurance Stated Value, Purchase & Sale and Diminished Value.

Appraisals of Personal Property, Art, Boats, Classic & Custom Autos, Collectibles and Memorabilia, Electronics, Machinery, Motorcycles & Choppers, Furnishings, RVs, Trucks & Heavy Equipment. Business Valuations specializing in all types of small businesses.

Date Published: Apr 19, 2011 - 1:26 pm

BUYING AN ANTIQUE, CLASSIC OR CUSTOM CAR IN SOUTH FLORIDA? AN INSPECTION IS A GOOD INVESTMENT.

OLD CARS
http://stlucieappraisal.net/

BROWARD COUNTY - Usually, the antique, classic or custom car or truck you want most is located somewhere far away. You found in on eBay, Autotrader.com or in Hemmings. Do you buy it sight unseen or hire an appraiser to check it out for you? There are hundreds of stories about how cars were misrepresented by sellers but after the vehicle is paid for and shipped across country, there's little a buyer can do about it. Making sure you'll get exactly what you've paid for is easy. Here are a few suggestions for both buyers and sellers of used cars in South Florida.

If you are selling a car to a prospective out-of-state buyer it is important to provide honest, accurate information about the vehicle. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to give them a list of appraisers, with a State of Florida DFS Adjuster and Appraiser license, who will inspect the vehicle and answer any questions or concerns the buyer might have. Your chances of selling that street rod to an out-of-stater who hasn't actually seen the car are much lower but that's where you'll find most of your customer base. A recent appraisal and inspection report is a great seller's tool. Think about having it done because you can send the same report to every potential customer.

When a buyer calls St. Lucie Appraisal to evaluate a car or truck, the first thing we do is try to arrange for the vehicle to be test driven and inspected on a lift. The seller should be able to provide this for free at his mechanic but do you trust his mechanic's word alone? Too often, it is when you first get your new car in the air that buyer's remorse sets in. If a buyer has to spend an extra $75 for these additional garage services, he can avoid a potential $30,000 mistake. Sellers rarely include photos of leaks or undercarriage damages in their eBay adverts.

Documentation such as invoices or receipts for parts, repairs or customization are important. If something seems questionable, we'll even call a shop to talk about repairs or other operations that were done years ago. Some customizations and fabrications simply don't work, especially relating to performance-enhanced vehicles. By making a few calls we might learn that a former owner changed the suspension so radically the car wouldn't go in a straight line any more. We do not want the next owner of that car to be you.

Appraising the value of an antique, classic or custom car or truck car is only half the job. Making sure you get what your paying for is the other part and every bit as important. Buying or selling a motor vehicle in South Florida? We can help you with that.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Fax: (772) 466-8400
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Date Published: Apr 08, 2011 - 5:57 am

Feed: THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL BLOG - AggScore: 95.5

Summary: THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY - MOTOR VEHICLES & PERSONAL PROPERTY

BAD CARFAX? CAR OWNERS IN FLORIDA CAN RECOVER THEIR AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE.

FINANCING OR INSURING CUSTOM TRUCKS, TRACTORS AND TRAILERS? APPRAISING HEAVY EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT FLORIDA.

AUTO DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIMS IN FLORIDA - NOT JUST FOR BENTLEY, MERCEDES-BENZ AND PORSCHE OWNERS

BUYING & SELLING A CLASSIC AND CUSTOM CAR, HEAVY TRUCK OR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IN FLORIDA? BE SURE TO HAVE IT APPRAISED OR INSPECTED.

TRUCKERS AND CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY - HOW AN OWNER OPERATOR CAN KEEP HIS TRUCK

NEWS FROM THE CORVETTE CLUB OF SOUTH FLORIDA

AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE IN FLORIDA - HOW YOUR APPRAISER, LAWYER AND EXPERT WITNESS AFFECT YOUR LOSS OF VALUE CASE AGAINST AN INSURANCE COMPANY

AUTOMOBILE, TRUCK AND PERSONAL PROPERTY APPRAISER IN MIAMI, FL - ART, ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES - FDFS LICENSED, INSURED

BOOK VALUES AND BANKRUPTCY - CAR TALK WITH YOUR FLORIDA ATTORNEY

APPRAISING ANTIQUE CARS AT SOUTH FLORIDA'S CLASSIC CAR DEALERSHIPS - THE FEAR FACTOR

ADVOCATES FOR AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE

SAVING THE WORLD FROM BUYING CRAPPY CARS

FINANCING TRUCKS, TRAILERS AND CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT IN FLORIDA

TOTAL LOSSES AND DIMINISHED VALUE - DISPUTING AN INSURANCE COMPANY'S UNFAIR SETTLEMENT OFFER - WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES?

BUYING AN ANTIQUE, CLASSIC OR CUSTOM CAR IN SOUTH FLORIDA? AN INSPECTION IS A GOOD INVESTMENT.

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