Pianotech

  • 1.  Tax appraisal for donated piano?

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 09-08-2020 23:03
    Hi all you highly experienced long time techs.  I have a client wanting an appraisal for a piano which is definitely worth more than the $5000 maximum  value that the IRS allows without a "Qualified  Appraiser ".  

    Does anyone have experience on this subject? After reading through the IRS publication on the subject, I am not clear on who actually qualifies to do something like this.

    Any thoughts appreciated!

    Dale Fox RPT


  • 2.  RE: Tax appraisal for donated piano?

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 09-08-2020 23:14
    Contact Leopold Holder, RPT.  He has an ad in the Classified section of the Journal. He's a certified appraiser. 

    I've used Leo several times over the years. He works with you to evaluate the piano. He gives you step by step instructions of what he wants, and wants you to do. 

    He will charge you for his part of the work. I add my fee on top of that to the customer.

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    Willem "Wim" Blees, RPT
    Mililani, HI 96789
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  • 3.  RE: Tax appraisal for donated piano?

    Member
    Posted 09-08-2020 23:23
    I have used Ridgely Fischer at Crofton Piano in Maryland. He is a Certified Piano Appraiser with the proper experience, qualifications, knowledge that meets IRS requirements. Several options are available but I advise clients to get the one that comes with the formal Appraisal Certificate . I assist the client and add a fee on top of his fees. In some cases it may be necessary to take some digital pictures.It is also good to know if there has been any rebuilding, action rebuilds , new hammers, strings etc.etc

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    James Kelly
    Owner- Fur Elise Piano Service
    Pawleys Island SC
    843-325-4357
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  • 4.  RE: Tax appraisal for donated piano?

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 09-08-2020 23:47
    Hi Dale,

    After having done several "appraisals" I decided to get serious and I completed a certified appraiser course.  So while I felt competent to do the appraisals before, I'm now a certified appraiser limiting my interest in that field to acoustic pianos.  I'd be happy to talk with you about it.  Email me.

    Gary Bruce, RPT, CAGA





  • 5.  RE: Tax appraisal for donated piano?

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 09-10-2020 10:37
    Thanks to all for your input.   I think I have a course of action now!

    Dale Fox RPT