What is identified as the number one tool for discovering personal property?

The identification of self-declaration by the owner as the number one tool for discovering personal property is rooted in the principle that direct communication from the property owner can provide the most accurate and detailed account of what they possess. Owners have firsthand knowledge of their belongings and can offer insights into specific items and their values that might not be captured through other methods.

Public records can offer some information about property and its assessed value, but they typically focus on real property rather than personal property. Tax assessments might indicate personal property related to a business or specific types of personal assets, but again, this does not encompass the entire scope of personal property. Real estate surveys primarily address the boundaries and aspects of real estate, leaving out the intricacies of personal property owned by individuals.

By relying on self-declaration, the appraiser taps into the greatest source of information available, allowing for a more complete and nuanced understanding of the personal property in question. This direct approach often helps in establishing accurate valuations and ensuring that nothing is overlooked in the process of appraisal.