Know what you are buying before you order an appraisal.
A useful diminished value report explains the vehicle, the damage, the market evidence and the reasoning behind the opinion.
What a supported report should explain
- The vehicle: identity, equipment, mileage, condition and relevant history.
- The loss: collision facts, damage and the repair records reviewed.
- The valuation: the relevant date, market and comparison between pre-loss and post-repair value.
- The evidence: sources, adjustments, reasoning and important limitations.
- The scope: whether the vehicle was physically inspected or evaluated from documents.
Document-based appraisal
Uses the supplied records and other available evidence within the agreed scope. It is not a physical inspection and cannot establish every hidden condition.
Physical inspection
May be appropriate when vehicle condition or repair questions require an in-person evaluation. It costs an additional fee and must be arranged in advance. Ask exactly what will be inspected and documented.
Questions to ask an appraiser
- What credentials or applicable authority do you have for this work?
- What documents do you need, and what happens if they are incomplete?
- What does the price include? Is inspection, travel or follow-up extra?
- How will you support the amount rather than merely apply a formula?
- What assistance is included if the insurer questions the report?
- What written terms, limitations and refund conditions apply?
Check credentials without assuming an outcome
Oregon vehicle appraisal requirements and exceptions appear in ORS 819.480 and 819.482. A certificate is relevant, but no credential guarantees that an insurer will accept a report or that a court will award its amount.
Start with a review, not a purchase
Austin Nix is your main contact. Submit the full estimate form so he can review the records and explain the appropriate service. Do not assume that a paid report will be cost-effective for every vehicle or claim.
See our approach and credentials · Read service terms · Read common questions
Start with the facts about your vehicle.
Complete the full estimate form so Austin Nix can review your vehicle, accident and repair information together.
Questions about an existing request? Contact Austin at dvooaustin@gmail.com or (503) 420-3333.
The free estimate is a preliminary document review. Physical inspections, repair inspections and paid appraisal services require a separate agreement and additional fees.
