Why My Success-Based Fee Structure Ensures You Get the Highest Payout Possible

When choosing an independent appraiser to appraise your vehicle and represent you in the appraisal clause process, it’s essential to understand not only the fee structure but also the quality of service and results you’ll receive. Here’s why my pricing model—$300 for a detailed, USPAP-compliant appraisal plus a 15% success fee for negotiations—works in your favor and ensures I’m as motivated as you are to get the highest payout possible:

1. Motivation to Maximize Your Settlement

The 15% success fee means I’m financially motivated to fight for every dollar you’re entitled to. The more I increase your payout, the more we both win. Many appraisers charge a flat fee, but here is the issue with that:

Imagine a scenario in which a hypothetical flat fee appraiser that you hire values your vehicle at $22,000, while the insurance company’s appraiser values your vehicle at $17,000. The insurance company’s appraiser then offers to settle at $18,000. If your appraiser is paid a flat fee, what incentive do they have to push for the $22,000 valuation, even if it’s justified? It takes a lot of additional time to scrutinize the insurance company appraiser’s report and the flat fee appraiser gets paid the same amount regardless.

In contrast, with a success-based fee, I’m motivated to fight for the full $22,000. As an independent vehicle appraiser, I’ll thoroughly review the insurance company’s appraisal, point out any flaws with their comparables and adjustments, and even call the owner or dealership to verify details like the extent of any rust damage, condition of the vehicle, vehicle options, and other important factors.

Umpire Appraisers

Over 90% of my appraisal clause cases are settled without needing an umpire because my reports are highly respected in the industry. However, when an umpire is necessary, it’s vital to choose one carefully. Unfortunately, in this business, there are a lot of questionable practices, and some umpires may be biased because a significant portion of their business comes from insurance companies. Because so much money is at stake and insurance companies like to payout as little as possible, I take extra care in screening for an unbiased umpire to ensure a fair decision. You really do need someone who will go the extra mile to advocate for you and ensure that the entire appraisal clause process is fair.

2. Run—Don’t Walk—Away from Appraisers Using Blue Book Values

If you hear an appraiser mention values from Kelley Blue Book, JD Power, or NADA, take that as a major red flag. Those guides often overlook essential factors that determine your vehicle’s true worth, especially if it’s a classic, rare, or equipped with special features, etc. Nothing is more accurate than using actual, substantially similar vehicles that are currently for sale or were recently sold. These reflect the true market dynamics better than any blue book value ever could. Here are some real-world examples of where these “blue book” values fell short compared to the settlements I achieved:

2001 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Turbo Diesel: Kelley Blue Book said $6,156-$9,589. I got my client $30,064.
2011 Lexus GX 460: Kelley Blue Book said $13,221. I got my client $18,355.
2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium: Kelley Blue Book said $30,222. I got my client $36,200.

Kelley Blue Book said $6,156 – $9,589

Appraisal Clause Award 2001 Dodge Ram 2500

Actual Settlement Amount: $30,064

3. Beware of “Appraisal Mills” Offering Cheap, Flat-Rate Services

Many “appraisers” offering flat fees rely on one or two page, software-generated reports that fail to properly adjust for all of your vehicle’s specific features, condition, and upgrades. These “appraisal mills” oftentimes don’t perform true appraisals, they print off a generic report, which could leave thousands of dollars on the table. My reports are over 40 pages, fully USPAP-compliant, and custom-tailored to your vehicle. This level of detail ensures that no options or extras are overlooked in the valuation.

I recommend always asking for a sample appraisal before choosing an appraiser. I’m happy to email you a sample of one of my appraisal reports so you can see the quality and detail for yourself.

Proven Results

As a certified, independent vehicle appraiser, I’ve consistently secured maximum fair payouts for my clients. My thorough appraisals and success-based fee structure, combined with expert negotiation, ensure you get the highest possible settlement.

If you would like a second opinion on your insurance company’s offer, please fill out the form below and I will get back to you by email usually within 24 hours: