Classic Car News & Auto Appraisal Tips
The two secrets the auto insurance industry doesn't want you to know!
The two secrets the auto insurance industry doesn't want you to know are "Appraisal Clause" and "Diminished Value." Almost every auto insurance policy has an Appraisal Clause, giving the policyholder, in the event their vehicle is declared a total loss, the right to an independent appraisal of the prior-to-loss fair market value. Diminished Value is the sudden loss of value because of an accident. If you were not at-fault in the accident, you can make a Diminished Value claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. Call/text 786-853-0711 with any questions.
Should you tell your insurance company about upgrades and options?
Whether it's life, travel or automobile, insurance is the one item we purchase which we hope we never use. But, **** happens! Recently we handled total loss claims on a '90s Land Rover Defender and a 2021 Honda Civic Type R, both with over $10k in recent options and upgrades of which the owners never advised their insurance companies. We were able to settle for more $$$ than the insurance company initially offered, but the >$10k in upgrades was not covered! Yes, they saved a few $$ on the insurance premium, but lost thousands in the settlement. Don't be penny wise and dollar foolish! If you have invested in upgrades on your vehicle, advise your insurance company in writing!
Wrecked Porsche?
If your Porsche has been in an accident, whether it has been declared a total loss, or is repairable, by having a Prior-to-total loss Fair Market Value, or a Diminished Value appraisal, you will almost certainly have a higher cash settlement than the insurance company is initially willing to pay. Applies to all vehicles, not just Porsches!
Vehicle appraisals for Divorce or Bankruptcy? We can help!
Assessing the value of assets when going through a divorce or bankruptcy can sometimes be challenging. If you have a vehicle, motorcycle, RV, boat or light aircraft that needs a determination of value, for any purpose, we can help. Call/text 786-853-0711
Total loss because of fire?
Has your vehicle been declared a total loss because of a fire? If your insurance company wants to settle for less than what you believe it's worth, invoke the Appraisal Clause in your policy, and get it appraised! Call/text 786-853-0711
Pre-purchase inspections or financing appraisals on 'oddball' vehicles -
Whether you are looking to purchase a 1946 Chevy pick-up truck with a Corvette engine, a 1979 Excalibur Series II Phaeton, or any other out-of-the-ordinary "oddball" vehicle you would be well advised to get a pre-purchase inspection, or financing appraisal to determine the condition and/or the fair market value of the the vehicle. Call/text 786-853-0711 to discuss your needs
100 deadliest driving days of summer, Memorial Day to Labor Day
We are now in the 100 deadliest driving days of summer, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal crashes involving teens are at their highest! If you are a teen, or a parent, uncle, aunt, guardian, etc. of a teen, please read and share this article. YOU could save a life! https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/teen-driver-safety/
Has your Jaguar been in an accident?
If your Jaguar has been in an auto accident, there are two possible outcomes: declared a Total Loss, or repaired and back on the road. Either way, you should be aware of the auto insurance industry's two biggest kept secrets: Appraisal Clause and Diminished Value. Do an internet search of both terms, and learn how you can receive a greater settlement than the insurance company is willing to pay. Call/text: 786-853-0711
Why Restomods need appraisals for insurance.
OK, so why do Restomods need an appraisal to get proper insurance coverage? A very popular basis for a Restomod is the first generation Chevrolet Camaro (1967-69). Currently the value of an original #3 Good condition base coupe is around $24,000. Recently we've appraised two Camaro Restomods with build costs of $280k and $403k, respectively. Without an appraisal on file, in the event of a total loss, these Restomod owners might receive an insurance settlement of just $24,000! Protect your investment! Get it appraised! Call/text 786-853-0711
Financing older cars, trucks, motorcycle and boats
If you have tried to obtain a financing loan on a vehicle, say, 10 or more years old, you may have found that the lending institution won't do so without a current fair market value appraisal. In addition to financing, we provide diminished value and prior-to-total loss appraisals. Call/text 786-853-0711 for more info.