How to appraise old furniture?

A reliable furniture appraisal follows a clear sequence: identify the piece, document its condition and history, research comparable sales, and, for anything of significant value, have the estimate confirmed by a certified appraiser.

Identify the piece and its condition

Start by examining the furniture closely for age indicators, wood species, joinery, and any maker's marks, labels, or stamps on the back, underside, or inside drawers. These details often signal the era, origin, and maker, all of which drive value. Then assess condition: check for structural stability, original versus replaced hardware, refinishing, veneer loss, or repairs. Original finish and unaltered construction generally hold more value than heavily restored pieces. Photograph everything, including damage and any labels, so you have a complete visual record to reference or share.

Research comparable sales and value factors

Once you know what you're looking at, compare it against recent sales of similar pieces in similar condition. Age alone doesn't determine value; rarity, craftsmanship, provenance (documented ownership history), and current market demand matter just as much. A well-made, original 19th-century piece with a paper trail will typically outvalue a similar item with no history behind it. This research stage is also where many people underestimate value or overlook damage that a trained eye would catch, which is why a professional furniture appraisal is worth the investment for anything you plan to insure, donate, or include in an estate.

When to bring in a certified appraiser

For antiques (generally pieces 100+ years old), designer furniture, or any item tied to insurance, IRS charitable donation reporting, estate settlement, or divorce proceedings, a self-assessment isn't enough. Our certified appraisers evaluate construction methods, provenance, and comparable auction and dealer records to produce USPAP-compliant, defensible reports. If you're just getting started, our guide on how to get old furniture valued walks through the process in more detail, and our online furniture appraisal service lets you submit photos for a professional evaluation without an in-home visit.