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Frequently Asked Questions

• Why would someone need a horse appraised?

• What types of horses does Sterling usually appraise?

• Who are the equine appraisers and what are their backgrounds?

• Do you provide services to attorneys, accountants or insurance agents?

• How much does an appraisal cost?

• Can you value a horse that you don't physically see?

• How do you determine value of my horse?

• I am considering donating my horse. Do you have any advice?

• What can I do to be prepared in case I ever need an appraisal?

Why would someone need a horse appraised? At some point in a horse owner's life, situations may occur that requires you to prove the value of your horse. This is when you need a professional horse appraiser who is compassionate and can advise you of the proper process and procedures. Sterling examines horse values for sales, donations, litigation, partnerships, collateral and more.

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Who are the equine appraisers and what are their backgrounds? Sterling has the highest caliber appraisers. Feel confident in your selection of Sterling for your horse appraisal needs. Each appraisal is conducted by an expert horse person who at a minimum is an earner of state and national titles, high points, honor rolls, points and awards in several breeds and disciplines and schooled in the hands-on appraisal process. Every partner of our team is certified by the American Society of Equine Appraisers and receives continuing education annually. It's not just a job, it's a passion! (more details)

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Can you value a horse that you don't physically see? Because some horses are no longer available for inspection, much of our work is appraising horses that we can not see in person. We conduct appraisals under hypothetical conditions, usually if the horse is deceased or stolen. This type of appraisal requires that we 'assume' some facts by using information obtained through various documents and validated by other sources including but not limited to veterinarians, trainers, breed registry officials, local sale barns, or prior owners. (more details)

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How do you determine value of my horse? There are many way to assess the value of a horse. Sterling evaluates the unique circumstances of each project and then applies the most appropriate method, as defined by the American Society of Equine Appraisers. Most often, we use the Sales Comparison method to determine the "fair market value" of the horse being appraised. Much like real estate, we can review horses that have sold recently with similar characteristics to your horse and add or subtract dollars based on an unbiased evaluation of how your horse stacks up. Recently, Horse & Rider published a chart that depicts this process.

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If the value is more than $5,000, you will need to support the claim with a written appraisal by a qualified, independent expert. If you horse is quite valuable, your accountant may advise you to have two appraisals, in case the IRS disallows one.

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Sally Apter, Esq., Pennsylvania I will refer future clients to you for sure. Thank you for your quick turn-around of the report and professionalism.

Christy Scotch, Alabama When we decided to get our Oldenburg mare appraised by your company, I had several lengthy conversations with your appraisal team. I was very impressed with the professionalism and customer service.

Judi Jackson, California I really appreciate your work and effort in this matter. You looked at the whole picture using your experience and knowledge to help truth to the surface during this difficult case! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.