Tag: car

FORD DIMINISHED VALUE AND LOSS OF USE CLAIMS

September 17, 2025September 17, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

St. Lucie Automobile and Diminished Value Appraiser

There is a new phenomenon in the automotive world and it is called Auto Diminished Value. For those who haven’t heard this term, it means the loss in value a vehicle experiences after undergoing collision repairs. Ford models that attract more discriminating buyers, suffer a great deal more diminished value than an ordinary car. Used car buyers simply won’t pay as much for a previously wrecked car so dealers, in turn, have to offer less come trade-in time. New and late model car owners expect a first-class level of service. Those expectations extend to the treatment they receive from insurance companies after their cars are wrecked by the negligence of others. Seeking fair compensation for diminished value and loss of use is part of it. You need an expert appraiser. At The St. Lucie Appraisal Company, Ford Diminished Value and Loss of Use claims are our specialty.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

Our methodology for preparing automobile diminished value appraisals is unique within the industry because we don’t rely on formulas, algorithms, auto auction results or other short cuts to determine the amount of value lost after collision repairs. Each situation is unique and the only way to provide tailor-made reports is to query the people who actually do the buying and selling of these bad Carfax vehicles – new car dealers. It is important, of course, that the dealers who participate in our surveys know full well that the subject vehicles are not for sale or available for trade. This prevents insurance companies from alleging collusion or vested interest. This approach has made our company the best at what we do – Diminished Value and Loss of Use appraisals. Magistrates and mediators alike have recognized the validity of our reports because they are comprehensive and they aren’t complicated.

Insurance Company defense attorneys can instantly recognize which independent appraisals will stand up in court and advise their adjusters accordingly when it comes to offering fair settlements. We are rarely called upon to appear as expert witnesses in legal proceedings because our customers generally receive fair settlements that preclude taking civil actions. Ford diminished value and loss of use claims should present no problems if appraisals are prepared correctly.

So where does this leave the Ford owner when it comes to receiving fair compensation for Diminished Value and Loss of Use? The independent appraisers that use formulas and algorithms arrive at numbers that don’t remotely represent the Ford used car market. As for the independent appraisers that use automobile auction results, they are completely out of luck since so few high-end Fords are put up for auction.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company has gained more than our share of diminished value and loss of use requests from Ford owners due chiefly to word of mouth. It has been not only Ford owners but also the certified Ford collision repair shop managers who have sent their customers, friends and families to us.

Finally, with regard to Loss of Use claims, it costs up to $250 per day to rent a Dream Car such as the Ford Mustang GT Convertible. A late model high-end Ford or comparable car or SUV can cost $125.00 per day on a long-term basis. Why do insurance companies feel that they can get away with offering lower-priced replacement vehicles to Ford owners? It is common knowledge that a wrecked high-end Ford can take up to 60 days to repair. A typical Loss of Use report for an Ford owner whose car is laid up for two months is in excess of $7,500.00. Of special note: It is not necessary to actually rent a car in order to receive compensation for Loss of Use.

Current Ford models include C-Max Energi and Hybrid, Escape, Expedition, Explorer, F-150, Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, Super Duty F-250, F-350 and F-450 along with the Transit line of vans. Phased out recently were the Taurus, Econoline Vans, Edge and Flex models. All of these Fords will lose value after collision repairs. Diminished Value can result in as much as 50% of the vehicle’s value lost, especially if frame damage or air bag deployment was involved. While “the older the car, the less it will suffer diminished value” is true, that statement can be misleading. While a 2008 Ford with a bad Carfax will lose less in value, percentage-wise, than a newer model, older cars can still be worth thousands of dollars less.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

Click on the payment button above to pay by Credit Card or Paypal. The fee for an Automobile Diminished Value Report is
$275.00. You may also make your Credit Card Payment by telephone, call 772-359-4300.

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service throughout Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi , Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company

This is an Open Education resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.

Antique, Classic and Custom Automobile Appraiser in all 50 States

September 17, 2025September 17, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

In every one of these United States, we have appraised almost every type of antique, classic and custom car. In addition, exotic cars such as Ferrari, Bentley and Tesla are here in abundance. When it comes time to appraise the value of your automobile, RV, motorcycle or heavy equipment for insurance, financing, diminished value or a charitable donation to a non-profit for a tax-deduction, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is the company you want to call. Our experience appraising all types of motor vehicles provides vehicle and equipment owners with the advantage of hiring someone who knows just how valuable old, well-kept cars and trucks can be. In addition, we keep an extensive library of past automotive sales that other appraisers can not match. We are an antique car appraiser you can count on.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

Many companies providing financing or insurance for autos, trucks and heavy equipment have strict requirements regarding the appraisal of vehicles. A bank or credit union lending money toward the purchase of an antique car, dump truck or over the road tractor will ask for an appraisal by a licensed appraiser or adjuster before committing funds toward the purchase. Likewise, insurance underwriters look for documentation before providing coverage. Bankruptcies and loan defaults among owner-operators of trucks and construction equipment make lenders and insurers extremely selective about who they do business with. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is a company that banks and insurers choose to provide valuation services that they can depend on.

Hire an Expert Antique, Classic and Custom Automobile Appraiser

Selecting a company to perform a car or truck appraisal is typically the job of the prospective buyer or policyholder. Often the vehicle owner is asked to locate an independent appraiser. When lenders or brokers do hire us, it is often as a result of a Google search or positive review on a site such as Yelp, YP.com, Google Maps, etc..

After making certain that the independent appraiser is properly licensed, investigate for yourself their expertise and any reviews from past clients. When their appraisal is placed under the microscope of the insurer or lender, if their answers don’t meet the bank’s or insurance company’s criteria, you have wasted your money on a worthless document.

Call The St. Lucie Appraisal Company when only the best and most knowledgeable appraiser will do. Our service area includes all 50 states Our appraisals are sought after for insurance, financing, donations for tax-deductions, diminished value, bankruptcies, divorces, insurance claim disputes, purchase & sales and estate dissolutions.

REQUEST AN AUTOMOBILE VALUATION APPRAISAL – $275.00 for most cars.

Please email photographs and other vehicle information to email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Service in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington West Virginia and Wisconsin.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company

This is an Open Education resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.

Tesla S85 Diminished Value Claim in Los Angeles, California

September 17, 2025September 17, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

St. Lucie Appraisal, automobile, personal property, diminished value, appraiser

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Tesla S85 4 Door Sedan with 28,821 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $29,106.94 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed, had structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser near Los Angeles and made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Appraisal is key.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at exotic new car dealerships in Southern California – The car will lose substantial value because of the structural damage. Also that since the integrity of the unibody was compromised you are looking at 30% to 50% less come trade-in time and also that frame damage on the Carfax is a red flag that would deter most buyers from purchasing the car. The opinions of unbiased experts form the basis for the most comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal available. We obtain six of them which absolutely puts the diminished value figure prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company in the ballpark. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.Dealers providing opinions regarding diminished value were given information specific to this vehicle including year, make, model, mileage, color, options, any other pertinent equipment, date of loss as well as the nature of the repaired damages and the manner in which the vehicle was repaired. Dealer opinions are based on personal knowledge and access to auction results. Dealers were advised that this vehicle was properly repaired.We contacted several exotic new car dealers in Southern California in order to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the Front including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $29,106.94. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were not utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 35.83%%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $50,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $17,915.00.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Riverside, Stockton, Chula Vista, Irvine, Fremont, San Bernardino, Modesto, Oxnard, Fontana, Moreno Valley, Huntington Beach, Glendale, Santa Clarita, Garden Grove, Oceanside, Santa Rosa, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Elk Grove, Lancaster, Corona, Palmdale, Salinas, Hayward, Pomona, Escondido, Sunnyvale, Torrance, Orange, Pasadena, Fullerton, Thousand Oaks, Visalia, Roseville, Simi Valley, Concord, Victorville, Santa Clara, Vallejo, Berkeley, El Monte, Downey, Costa Mesa, Inglewood, Carlsbad, Fairfield, Ventura, Richmond, Murrieta, Antioch, Temecula, Norwalk, Daly City, Burbank, Santa Maria, El Cajon, Rialto, San Mateo, Clovis, Jurupa Valley, Compton, Vista, Mission Viejo, South Gate, Vacaville, Carson, Santa Monica, Arden-Arcade, Hesperia, Westminster, Redding, Santa Barbara, San Marcos, Chico, San Leandro, Newport Beach, Whittier, Hawthorne, Citrus Heights, Livermore, Tracy, Alhambra, Indio, Menifee, Buena Park, Hemet, Lakewood, Merced, Chino, Redwood City, Lake Forest, Napa, Tustin, Mountain View, Bellflower, Baldwin Park, Alameda, Upland, San Ramon, Pleasanton and throughout California. auto appraiser near 90011, auto appraiser near 90201, auto appraiser near 90650, auto appraiser near 91331

This is an Open Education resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
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Auto Diminished Value Case in Small Claims Court

September 16, 2025September 16, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

NOTE: This article is intended as a guide and not as a form of legal advice.

Among the various and many articles that have been written about automobile diminished value, there are but a scant few that describe what happens when an irate claimant decides to become a plaintiff and escalates his claim into small claims court. Of course, there are many diminished value losses that exceed the $5,000.00 to $10,000.00 limit – each state has different thresholds – of this venue but for this article we will examine diminished value in small claims court. Small Claims Court is a special court where individuals, representing themselves, resolve disputes quickly and inexpensively in an informal setting. The person who sues is the plaintiff; the person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court. Again, different state laws apply.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company had occasion to prepare an automobile diminished value report for a client, but not before he had made a few mistakes. The gentleman owned a Honda Pilot which was damaged by a negligent driver who was insured with Safeco Insurance. After having his 3,900 mile vehicle repaired for $1,446.13, not a great deal of damage, he filed an automobile diminished value claim against Safeco. He presented as evidence of diminution, a document from his Honda dealer which stated that his vehicle, due to its now having a bad Carfax, was worth $4,000.00 less.

DIMINISHED VALUE IN SMALL CLAIMS COURT 772-359-4300

Insurance companies in general have become sophisticated in recognizing what types of claimants they are dealing with when it comes to diminished value. This claimant did not seek out an independent appraiser, rather, he decided to forgo the cost and present his case armed with a letter from his Honda dealer. Safeco, in turn, likely categorized him as someone who would not cause them any trouble; as might someone who would spring for the cost of an independent appraisal. Insurers take the same approach when claimants present them with the low-cost types of diminished value appraisals found on the internet. Safeco denied his diminished value claim, offering him absolutely nothing, not even a token few hundred dollars as many insurers typically do.

That’s when our client contacted us to prepare an automobile diminished value report. Our appraisal, which was done on the basis of six quotes obtained from area Honda dealers to confirm our opinion, came to $2,000.00. With the appraisal in hand, he then contacted his attorney who filed a small claims action against the defendant vehicle owner in civil court. We were again contracted to appear as an expert witness to defend our findings.

When Bringing a Diminished Value Lawsuit to Small Claims Court, Be Prepared to Win

Safeco brought it’s own defense team that included an expert witness. Their expert witness did not produce an appraisal based on dealer quotes – their contention was, repairs having been done to industry standards, that diminished value did not exist.

We were questioned by both the plaintiff’s and defendant’s attorneys before the judge rendered his decision. Objections of hearsay are common and you or your counsel must be prepared to meet that if you are to get the full benefit of the report. One of the questions asked by Safeco’s attorney was whether our diminished value report was biased. The answer was no and it was a truthful answer. When The St. Lucie Appraisal Company prepares an automobile diminished value report, we present the facts to the dealers queried exactly as they are. The year, make, model, options condition and color of the subject vehicle as well as the specific damages that were repaired. All of the dealers queried are informed that the subject vehicle is not available for purchase or trade, therefore none of the dealers queried had any vested interest in the subject vehicle. The results of our inquiries speak for themselves. We neither add nor subtract any opinions of our own, nor do we attempt to skew results in favor of our clients.

Our appraisal fee is $275.00 and the cost to hire us as an expert witness is $675.00. Our client’s’s attorney fees were in the neighborhood of $1,000.00. However, he was so put off by the cavalier treatment he received from Safeco, he decided to risk spending the additional monies in order to extract a fair settlement from the insurer.

In the end, the magistrate agreed with our appraisal and also with the fact that compensation for diminished value was due even though the claimant had no intention of selling his vehicle. In addition to awarding the claimant $2,000.00 in diminished value, the judge ruled that Safeco should also pay all of the claimant’s appraisal, expert witness and legal fees. It was a bad day for the insurance company seeing as they were also on the hook for payment of their own defense costs, but it took the fervor of the claimant – his David vs. Goliath mentality – to put all of that in motion.

Our client’s attorney could not seek any punitive damages even though evidence of unfair claim practices existed. Perhaps in the future, when more Davids summon the courage to challenge Goliaths, all 50 states will adopt uniform laws that require fair and equitable treatment by insurers in automobile diminished value cases. Penalties for ignoring an obvious fact – that automobile diminished value does exist – may someday be imposed upon predatory insurance companies. On this day it was sweet vindication for our client and, hopefully, a warning for insurers to start walking a straighter line when presented with claims involving automobile diminished value.

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

This is an Open Education Resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.
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Miami Florida Automobile Appraiser

September 16, 2025September 16, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

MIAMI, Florida – In South Florida, we have appraised almost every type of antique, classic and custom car. In addition, exotic cars such as Ferrari, Bentley and Tesla are here in abundance. When it comes time to appraise the value of your automobile, RV, motorcycle or heavy equipment for insurance, financing, diminished value or a charitable donation to a non-profit for a tax-deduction, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is the company you want to call. Our experience appraising all types of motor vehicles provides car owners with the advantage of hiring someone who knows just how valuable old, well-kept cars can be. In addition, we keep an extensive library of past automotive sales that other appraisers can not match. We are a Miami Florida-licensed automobile appraiser you can count on.

FLORIDA ADJUSTERS LICENSE — FLORIDA LICENSED INDEPENDENT ADJUSTER

Many companies providing financing or insurance for autos, trucks and heavy equipment have strict requirements regarding the appraisal of vehicles. A bank or credit union lending money toward the purchase of an antique car, dump truck or over the road tractor will ask for an inspection by a licensed appraiser before committing funds toward the purchase. Likewise, insurance underwriters look for documentation before providing coverage. Bankruptcies and loan defaults among owners of custom and exotic cars make lenders and insurers extremely selective about who they do business with. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is a company that banks and insurers choose to provide valuation services.

Selecting a company to perform a car or truck appraisal is typically the job of the prospective buyer or policyholder. As absurd as it sounds, the typical commercial lender or insurance broker is clueless when it comes to finding a licensed independent appraiser. Often the vehicle owner is asked to locate an independent appraiser because banking and insurance managers don’t possess Rolodexes any more. When lenders or brokers do hire us, it is often as a result of a Google search. What the vehicle owner should know, however, is that once the appraisal is given to the bank or insurer, representatives from those institutions will then perform their due diligence and query the appraiser as to how he obtained his valuation figures.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

Our service area includes Miami as well as the rest of Florida. Our appraisals are sought after for insurance, financing, donations for tax-deductions, diminished value, bankruptcies, divorces, insurance claim disputes, purchase & sales and estate dissolutions. Call The St. Lucie Appraisal Company when only the best and most knowledgeable automobile appraiser will do.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
P.O. Box 2700
Fort Pierce, FL 34954
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Service in Aventura, Coral Gables, Doral, Hialeah, Key Biscayne, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Gardens, Miami Springs, North Bay, North Miami, Opa-Locka, South Miami, Sunny Isles, Sweetwater and West Miami. Auto appraiser near 33125, auto appraiser near 33142, auto appraiser near 33161, auto appraiser near 33165, auto appraiser near 33177, auto appraiser near 33186, auto appraiser near 33187

This is an Open Education Resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.
READ MORE ARTICLES…

Diminished Value Nashville

September 4, 2025September 4, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Honda Accord EX-L NAV with 34,813 miles that was involved in a front end collision on 10/04/2017 that caused $6,152.13 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed, had structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Report is key.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at Honda dealers in Tennessee. One dealer would not even take the car in trade. Also, it would be considered a wholesale or “auction” car especially with amount of damage listed on Carfax, even if it was repaired correctly you could still be looking at a loss of 30% or more. And because of the bad Carfax report, the car owner will have a pretty large loss when it comes to the overall trade in value. Frame damage really hurts the overall perception

The opinions of unbiased experts form the basis for the most comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal available. We obtain six of them which absolutely puts the diminished value figure prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company in the ballpark. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.

Dealers providing opinions regarding diminished value were given information specific to this vehicle including year, make, model, mileage, color, options, any other pertinent equipment, date of loss as well as the nature of the repaired damages and the manner in which the vehicle was repaired. Dealer opinions are based on personal knowledge and access to auction results. Dealers were advised that this vehicle was properly repaired.

We contacted several Honda dealers in Tennessee in order to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the Front with damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $6,152.13. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 32.50%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $15,500.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $5,037.50.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service in Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Jackson, Johnson City, Bartlett, Hendersonville, Kingsport, Collierville and throughout Tennessee.Anderson, Bedford, Benton, Bledsoe, Blount, Bradley, Campbell, Cannon, Carroll, Carter, Cheatham, Chester, Claiborne, Clay, Cocke, Coffee, Crockett, Cumberland, Davidson, Decatur, DeKalb, Dickson, Dyer, Fayette, Fentress, Franklin, Gibson, Giles, Grainger, Greene, Grundy, Hamblen, Hamilton, Hancock, Hardeman, Hardin, Hawkins, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Lake, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Loudon, McMinn, McNairy, Macon, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Maury, Meigs, Monroe, Montgomery, Moore, Morgan, Obion, Overton, Perry, Pickett, Polk, Putnam, Rhea, Roane, Robertson, Rutherford, Scott, Sequatchie, Sevier, Shelby, Smith, Stewart, Sullivan, Sumner, Tipton, Trousdale, Unicoi, Union, Van Buren, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Weakley, White, Williamson and Wilson Counties. auto appraiser near 37013, auto appraiser near 37076, auto appraiser near 37115, auto appraiser near 37211, auto appraiser near 37221

ARKANSAS ANTIQUE CAR APPRAISER

September 16, 2025September 16, 2024 by stlucieappraisal

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas – In Arkansas, we have appraised almost every type of antique, classic and custom car. In addition, exotic cars such as Ferrari, Bentley and Tesla are here in abundance. When it comes time to appraise the value of your automobile, RV, motorcycle or heavy equipment for insurance, financing or a charitable donation to a non-profit for a tax-deduction, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is the company you want to call. Our experience appraising all types of motor vehicles provides car owners with the advantage of hiring someone who knows just how valuable old, well-kept cars can be. In addition, we keep an extensive library of past automotive sales that other appraisers can not match. We are an Arkansas antique car appraiser you can count on.

Many companies providing financing or insurance for autos, trucks and heavy equipment have strict requirements regarding the appraisal of vehicles. A bank or credit union lending money toward the purchase of an antique car, dump truck or over the road tractor will ask for an inspection by a licensed appraiser before committing funds toward the purchase. Likewise, insurance underwriters look for documentation before providing coverage. Bankruptcies and loan defaults among owner-operators of trucks and construction equipment make lenders and insurers extremely selective about who they do business with. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is a company that banks and insurers choose to provide valuation services.

Call The St. Lucie Appraisal Company when only the best and most knowledgeable appraiser will do. Our service area includes Arkansas as well as all 50 states Our appraisals are sought after for insurance, financing, donations for tax-deductions, bankruptcies, divorces, insurance claim disputes, purchase & sales and estate dissolutions.

REQUEST AN AUTOMOBILE VALUATION APPRAISAL – $275.00 for most cars.

Please eMail photographs and other vehicle information to Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

Service in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, Bentonville, Hot Springs, Benton, Sherwood, Texarkana and throughout Arkansas.

Defining Diminished Value

August 21, 2025August 21, 2024 by stlucieappraisal

What is diminished value? This newly coined term is most often applied to the reduction in value of a car or truck after collision damages have been repaired. Regardless of how well the repairs were done, used car buyers would rather purchase an automobile with no accident history, thereby making the previously repaired vehicle worth less than its counterpart.

Diminished Value Appraisal in Tulsa, Oklahoma

November 12, 2023November 2, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Coupe with 27,606 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $17,551.15 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed and had structural damage and no air bag deployment.The claimant made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Report is key.
WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at Chevrolet dealerships in Oklahoma – Because this vehicle is a bit older, the loss wont be as great but dealers would still take it to auction and even then you would be looking at taking a 35% hit due to the damage reported. Also that you will lose about 30%+ normally at trade In especially because it’s a sports car and people looking to purchase a car like this will look for one with a clean Carfax. In this case due to there being frame damage a dealer is almost sure to sell this wholesale and also due to the frame damage being on the car it will be considered what they call a auction car and anytime the car has been deemed wholesale it loses a substantial amount of value

We contacted several Chevrolet dealers in Oklahoma in order to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the Front including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $17,551.15. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were not utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 32.08%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $40,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $12,832.00.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Lawton, Edmond, Moore, Midwest City, Enid, Stillwater, Muskogee, Bartlesville, Owasso, Shawnee and throughout Oklahoma. auto appraiser near 74105, auto appraiser near 74133, auto appraiser near 74136, auto appraiser near 74137

Tesla S90D AWD Diminished Value Claim in Buffalo, New York

November 12, 2023November 1, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Tesla Motors S90 AWD Sedan with 2,847 miles that was involved in a front-end collision that caused $10,858.27 in damage in November 2017. The vehicle was disabled/towed and did not sustain structural damage.The claimant made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Report is key.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at luxury car dealers in Upstate New York. – There would definitely be a loss of value because of the amount of damage that is on the Carfax they would have to sell it for a lot less in order to get rid of it and normally buyers when spending this kind of money on a vehicle would like to see a clean Carfax and will expect a “Deal”. Also, that the car would depreciate substantially due to the Autocheck showing damage that will make the car lose easily 15-30% off the book value. Another provided the example example if you had a Ford Focus your loss will be less than it would for a Tesla because it cost less therefore the loss is less.

We contacted several exotic car dealers dealers in Upstate New York in order to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the Rear with no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $10,858.27. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were not utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 15.56%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $75,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $11,670.00.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

The fee for an Automobile Diminished Value Report is $275.00. You may also make your Credit Card Payment by telephone, call 772-359-4300. Exotic car owners please call for rates.

After making your secure payment please email the completed body shop estimate or insurance company damage appraisal to contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Service in Albany, Amherst, Babylon, Brookhaven, Brooklyn, Bronx, Cheektowaga, Clarkstown, Colonie, Greece, Greenburgh, Hamburg, Hempstead, Huntington, Irondequoit, Islip, Manhattan, North Hempstead, New York City, Orangetown, Oyster Bay, Poughkeepsie, Queens, Ramapo, Rye, Smithtown, Staten Island, Tonawanda, Union, Webster, West Seneca, White Plains and throughout New York.Service throughout Albany, Allegany, Bronx, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Erie, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Kings, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Nassau, New York, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orange, Orleans, Oswego, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, St. Lawrence, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Suffolk, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Westchester, Wyoming and Yates Counties. auto appraiser near 14075, auto appraiser near 14150, auto appraiser near 14215, auto appraiser near 14224, auto appraiser near 14225

BMW Diminished Value and Loss of Use Claims

November 12, 2023November 1, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

There is a new phenomenon in the automotive world and it is called Diminished Value. For those who haven’t heard this term, it means the loss in value a vehicle experiences after undergoing collision repairs. BMW models that attract more discriminating buyers, suffer a great deal more diminished value than an ordinary car. Used car buyers simply won’t pay as much for a previously wrecked car so dealers, in turn, have to offer less come trade-in time. New and late model car owners expect a first-class level of service. Those expectations extend to the treatment they receive from insurance companies after their cars are wrecked by the negligence of others. Seeking fair compensation for diminished value and loss of use is part of it. You need an expert appraiser. At The St. Lucie Appraisal Company, BMW Diminished Value and Loss of Use claims are our specialty.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

Insurance Company defense attorneys can instantly recognize which independent appraisals will stand up in court and advise their adjusters accordingly when it comes to offering fair settlements. We are rarely called upon to appear as expert witnesses in legal proceedings because our customers generally receive fair settlements that preclude taking civil actions. BMW diminished value and loss of use claims should present no problems if appraisals are prepared correctly.

So where does this leave the BMW owner when it comes to receiving fair compensation for Diminished Value and Loss of Use? The independent appraisers that use formulas and algorithms arrive at numbers that don’t remotely represent the BMW used car market. As for the independent appraisers that use automobile auction results, they are completely out of luck since so few late-model high-end BMWs are put up for auction.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company has gained more than our share of diminished value and loss of use requests from BMW owners due chiefly to word of mouth. It has been not only BMW owners but also the certified BMW repair shop managers who have sent their customers, friends and families to us.

Finally, with regard to Loss of Use claims, it costs up to $250 per day to rent a Dream Car such as the BMW i8 from one of the Hertz locations in California. Anywhere else in the US, a late model high-end BMW or comparable car can cost $125.00 per day on a long-term basis. Why do insurance companies feel that they can get away with offering lower-priced replacement vehicles to BMW owners? It is common knowledge that a wrecked high-end BMW can take up to 60 days to repair. A typical Loss of Use report for a BMW owner whose car is laid up for two months is in excess of $7,500.00. Of special note: It is not necessary to actually rent a car in order to receive compensation for Loss of Use.

All BMWs will lose value after collision repairs. Diminished Value can result in as much as 50% of the vehicle’s value lost, especially if frame damage or air bag deployment was involved. While “the older the car, the less it will suffer diminished value” is true, that statement can be misleading. While a 2008 BMW with a bad Carfax will lose less in value, percentage-wise, than a newer model, older cars can still be worth thousands of dollars less after accident repairs.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

This is an Open Education Resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.
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Honda Diminished Value Appraisal in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

November 12, 2023November 1, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Honda CR-V EX-L AWD Navigation SUV with 14,671 miles that was involved in a Right Side Collision that caused $8,604.18 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed and had structural damage and no air bag deployment.The claimant made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Report is key.
WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at Honda dealerships in Wisconsin – That anytime there is frame damage you are looking at taking a much greater loss and it would be considered auction car. Also, in the case there is frame damage especially on a newer car the loss would be greater than if it were older because the cars value is higher now than it would be two years from now. Typically frame damaged cars dealers will take on trade but they would be wholesale cars and could take a hit of 25-30% Dealers report that they have seen them as high as half of the cars book value.

We contacted several Honda dealers in Wisconsin in order to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the Right Side with damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $8,604.18. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were not utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 34.58%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $25,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $8,645.00.

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After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine, Appleton, Waukesha, Eau Claire, Oshkosh, Janesville and throughout Wisconsin. auto appraiser near 53204, auto appraiser near 53207, auto appraiser near 53209, auto appraiser near 53215, auto appraiser near 53218, auto appraiser near 53221, auto appraiser near Milwaukee,

Diminished Value Inspection

November 12, 2023October 29, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

You want to hire The St. Lucie Appraisal Company to prepare a diminished value appraisal for your repaired vehicle. The reason? Because it’s widely known that our company is one of a handful of independent appraisers in the country that takes the time and trouble to obtain six unbiased, verifiable dealer quotes to prove the amount of value your car has lost. The bad Carfax or other vehicle history report shows that your automobile or truck has been repaired. It may even show that it sustained frame damage or had the air bags deploy. This is known as “Inherent Diminished Value,” a stigma loss for which you will receive compensation. Being that your vehicle has been properly repaired, there is no reason for the diminished value appraiser to make a physical inspection. After all, you aren’t claiming a loss in value for any repair-related issue. A bad Carfax = Diminished Value, it’s as simple as that. So why has the insurance company insisted on your arranging for a diminished value inspection?

Our company has prepared hundreds of automobile diminished value appraisals in all 50 states. As noted in the above paragraph, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is the only independent appraisal firm willing to call dealers until we obtain six opinions of how much less your car is worth. It’s hard work but worth it because our reports can’t be questioned; they have been proven in court to be evidence of diminished value. Other methods such as the use of formulas, algorithms and auction results, are not definitive confirmation.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

It is unusual for an insurance company to require a physical inspection in an inherent diminished value claim. State Farm Insurance Company is, or was, requiring claimants in California making inherent diminished value claims to have their repaired cars inspected by appraisers. Why? Three reasons come to mind. First, by compelling car owners to use local appraisers, they prevent claimants from obtaining expert appraisals that come from companies like St. Lucie Appraisal. If local independent appraisers use faulty methods that don’t conclusively prove diminished value, State Farm is seemingly off the hook. Second, claimants who live in rural areas may not find any local independent appraisal companies that handle diminished value. Having to drive hundreds of miles for an appraisal acts as an effective deterrent. Third, independent appraisers that perform physical inspections for diminished value appraisals charge prohibitive fees.

If a vehicle owner is caught in a situation like this, keep in mind that the insurance company has put itself in a bad position, one in which claimants can take full advantage. By denying a claimant the right to hire St. Lucie Appraisal or other expert independent appraiser, the insurer has put itself in a box. If they refuse to pay the claim for lack of evidence of diminished value due to poor methodology, the car owner can and should appeal their decision. In legal terms it is known as “ineffective counsel” but in this case the claimant was constrained from obtaining the best representation available.

We are proud of the job we do and hope to gain your business. However, if you find yourself caught in this position, inform the insurance company that you prefer to hire St. Lucie Appraisal, then proceed according to the guidelines they have dictated. At least you now know that you are on solid ground when it comes time to appeal an unfair decision by the insurance company.

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After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service throughout Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming

This is an Open Education Resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.
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Auto Diminished Value in Small Claims Court

November 12, 2023October 29, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

NOTE: This article is intended as a guide and not as a form of legal advice.

That’s when our client contacted us to prepare an automobile diminished value report. Our appraisal, supported by six quotes obtained from area Honda dealers, came to $2,000.00. With the appraisal in hand, he then contacted his attorney who filed a small claims action against the defendant vehicle owner in civil court. We were again contracted to appear as an expert witness to defend our findings.

When Bringing a Diminished Value Lawsuit to Small Claims Court, Be Prepared to Win

Safeco brought it’s own defense team that included an expert witness. Their expert witness did not produce a credible appraisal. Their contention was, repairs having been done to industry standards, that diminished value did not exist.

We were questioned by both the plaintiff’s and defendant’s attorneys before the judge rendered his decision. One of the questions asked by Safeco’s attorney was whether our diminished value report was biased. The answer was no and it was a truthful answer. When The St. Lucie Appraisal Company prepares an automobile diminished value report, we present the facts to the dealers queried exactly as they are. The year, make, model, options condition and color of the subject vehicle as well as the specific damages that were repaired. All of the dealers queried are informed that the subject vehicle is not available for purchase or trade, therefore none of the dealers queried had any vested interest in the subject vehicle. The results of our inquiries speak for themselves. We neither add nor subtract any opinions of our own, nor do we attempt to skew results in favor of our clients. We estimate the amount of diminished value then validate it by further research with six dealers.

Our client’s attorney could not seek any punitive damages even though evidence of unfair claim practices existed. Perhaps in the future, when more Davids summon the courage to challenge the Goliaths, all 50 states will adopt uniform laws that require fair and equitable treatment by insurers in automobile diminished value cases. Penalties for ignoring an obvious fact – that automobile diminished value does exist – may someday be imposed upon predatory insurance companies. On this day it was sweet vindication for our client and, hopefully, a warning for insurers to start walking a straighter line when presented with claims involving automobile diminished value.

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

This is an Open Education Resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.
AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM, AUTOLOSSOFUSE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.

CHEVROLET DIMINISHED VALUE AND LOSS OF USE CLAIMS

November 12, 2023October 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

There is a new phenomenon in the automotive world and it is called Diminished Value. For those who haven’t heard this term, it means the loss in value a vehicle experiences after undergoing collision repairs. Chevrolet models that attract more discriminating buyers, suffer a great deal more diminished value than an ordinary car. Used car buyers simply won’t pay as much for a previously wrecked car so dealers, in turn, have to offer less come trade-in time. New and late model car owners expect a first-class level of service. Those expectations extend to the treatment they receive from insurance companies after their cars are wrecked by the negligence of others. Seeking fair compensation for diminished value and loss of use is part of it. You need an expert appraiser. At The St. Lucie Appraisal Company, Chevrolet Diminished Value and Loss of Use claims are our specialty.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

Insurance Company defense attorneys can instantly recognize which independent appraisals will stand up in court and advise their adjusters accordingly when it comes to offering fair settlements. We are rarely called upon to appear as expert witnesses in legal proceedings because our customers generally receive fair settlements that preclude taking civil actions. Chevrolet diminished value and loss of use claims should present no problems if appraisals are prepared correctly.

So where does this leave the Chevrolet owner when it comes to receiving fair compensation for Diminished Value and Loss of Use? The independent appraisers that use formulas and algorithms arrive at numbers that don’t remotely represent the Chevrolet used car market. As for the independent appraisers that use automobile auction results, they are completely out of luck since so few high-end Chevrolets are put up for auction.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company has gained more than our share of diminished value and loss of use requests from Chevrolet owners due chiefly to word of mouth. It has been not only Chevrolet owners but also the certified Chevrolet collision repair shop managers who have sent their customers, friends and families to us.

Finally, with regard to Loss of Use claims, it costs up to $250 per day to rent a Dream Car such as the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. A late model high-end Chevrolet or comparable car can cost $125.00 per day. Why do insurance companies feel that they can get away with offering lower-priced replacement vehicles to Chevrolet owners? It is common knowledge that a wrecked high-end Chevrolet can take up to 60 days to repair. A typical Loss of Use report for an Chevrolet owner whose car is laid up for two months is in excess of $7,500.00. Of special note: It is not necessary to actually rent a car in order to receive compensation for Loss of Use.

Current Chevrolet models include the Camaro, Colorado, Corvette, Cruze, Equinox, Express, Impala, Malibu, Silverado, Sonic, Spark, the new for 2016 SS, Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, Trax and Volt. All of these Chevrolets will lose value after collision repairs. Diminished Value can result in as much as 50% of the vehicle’s value lost, especially if structural damage or air bag deployment was involved. While “the older the car, the less it will suffer diminished value” is true, that statement can be misleading. While a 2008 Chevrolet with a bad Carfax will lose less in value, percentage-wise, than a newer model, older cars can still be worth thousands of dollars less after accident repairs.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company.

Licensed and Certified Auto Appraiser

November 12, 2023October 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

There are licensing requirements for automobile appraisers. A properly licensed appraiser is automatically certified as an expert in this field. In order to obtain an adjusters or appraisers license, one must pass background checks and demonstrate both integrity and expertise in order to remain in good standing.

You will also find a number of associations that advertise themselves as certified automobile appraisal entities. These are actually just private companies that provide certifications for a fee. Most states require that an auto appraiser be licensed, successfully complete a course in auto appraisal, pass a state board exam and attend Continuing Education classes yearly for appraising automobiles. Should a state-licensed automobile appraiser be found guilty of a serious infraction, he or she could be subject to having their licenses suspended or revoked. No such penalties exist with the private companies that certify appraisers. Automobile appraisers can work on behalf of insurance companies as well as for individual vehicle owners. The types of appraisals they perform can range from damage estimating, to valuation appraisals and diminished value reports. When hiring an automobile appraiser, make certain that they have the proper credentials. A state-issued adjusters or appraisers license is the best confirmation that the automobile appraiser is qualified and that their reports will be accepted by insurers, magistrates and mediators.

Some of the entities that advertise that they are certified appraisers are listed below. When hiring an appraiser or adjuster who is certified by one of these companies, be sure to cross check with their home state insurance department to determine whether they are properly licensed.

The American Society of Certified Auto Appraisers
Bureau of Certified Auto Appraisers
Auto Appraisal Group
The Appraisal Foundation
Certified Automobile Appraisal LLC
I-Van, International Vehicle Appraisers Network
International Automotive Appraisers Association

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
Service in all 50 States
Phone: (772) 359-4300
Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

APPRAISING THE VALUE OF A RAT ROD FOR INSURANCE

November 12, 2023October 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Rat rods? Even insurance companies such as Hagerty and Grundy who will insure just about any vehicle sight-unseen – with no appraisal necessary – are confused when it comes to providing coverage for a rat rod. A typical policy states it can’t be a daily driver, and you also have to have another vehicle insured for each driver to use as a daily. Often, the only way you can get your ride covered as a daily driver is with liability only. The insurance industry doesn’t like old cars on the road. Making them difficult to insure is one way for them to solve the problem.

Your rat rod must be used on a very limited basis, such as exhibitions, club activities, and parades or similar events according to many policies offered. From Wikipedia: A rat rod is a style of hot rod or custom car that, in most cases, imitates the early hot rods of the 1940s, 1950s, and early-1960s. The style is not to be confused with the somewhat closely related “traditional” hot rod, which is an accurate re-creation or period-correct restoration of a hot rod from the same era. The typical rat rod is a late-1920s through to late-1950s coupe or roadster, but sometimes a truck or sedan. Rat rods often appear unfinished and, at most, primer-only paint jobs are applied; satin, or matte, black and other flat colors are also common. “Natural patina” (the original paint job, with rust and blemishes left intact); a patchwork of original paint and primer; or bare metal, in rusty or oiled varieties, with no finish at all are some of the other finishes that may be used. Interiors of rat rods can range from spartan to fully finished, though this is typically the final phase of construction. Rat Rods have actually evolved over the years and have gone through several different changes and phases. They require imagination and craftsmanship to be done right. Rat rods are built to be enjoyed and driven. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company understands your build and can provide an appraisal which will satisfy the most demanding insurance underwriter.

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The cost to obtain a vehicle valuation appraisal is $275.00. Use the payment button above to pay by credit card or Paypal.

Please email photographs and build information to contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Service throughoutAlabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi , Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

Diminished Value Appraisal in Richmond

November 12, 2023September 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport Automatic Convertible with 1,747 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $1,640.77 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed and had no structural damage and no air bag deployment.The claimant hired an auto appraiser near Richmond and made a third-party inherent auto diminished value claim for the vehicle’s loss in value. Once a car is repaired after a collision, it is worth less, often much less depending on the severity of the damage. Regardless of how well the repairer did his job, nobody will pay as much for a previously wrecked car as they would for an identical one that was never in an accident. Presenting a diminished value claim and following it through to a satisfactory conclusion is a daunting task for the average person. Obtaining a comprehensive Diminished Value Report is key.

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

We learned from these examples from sales managers at Mazda dealerships in Virginia – A minor accident or something showing $1600 worth of damage may or may not take a 10% hit on trade. Also, that you may lose 10% at least off the book value due to the fact that the car is so new and also being that the accident is minor in nature and normally the loss would be based on what is on the report and if you had it repaired at reputable shop maybe 10% less.

We contacted several Mazda dealers in Virginia in order to establish how these damages and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Fair Market Value (FMV.) Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

Description of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the Front with no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $1,640.77. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts were not utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 10.42%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the FMV at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Fair Market Value (Average Trade-In Value) of approximately $25,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $2,605.00.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE

After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Service in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Arlington, Richmond, Newport News, Alexandria, Hampton, Roanoke, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Lynchburg, Centreville, Dale City, Reston, Harrisonburg, McLean, Tuckahoe, Leesburg, Ashburn and throughout Virginia. diminished value appraiser near 23112, diminished value appraiser near 23220, diminished value appraiser near 23222, diminished value appraiser near 23223. diminished value appraiser near 22407, diminished value appraiser near 23224, diminished value appraiser near 23225

Founded by Franklin Colletta, The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is a family-owned appraisal company that offers nationwide service. We provide Diminished Value Appraisals, Total Loss Valuations, and Loss of Use Reports.
This is an Open Education resource focused on auto diminished value, collective knowledge and the sharing of scholarly content.AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM and TOTALLOSSDISPUTE.COM are services of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company
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TOTAL LOSSES AND THE APPRAISAL CLAUSE

November 12, 2023September 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Disputes over the values of automobiles and trucks involved in total loss claims are common. There are three points of view to consider – the car owner’s opinion, the insurance company’s opinion and the findings of an umpire who is hired when an impasse occurs. Resolution of total loss disputes by invoking what is known as The Appraisal Clause is becoming more common as insurers tighten purse strings. What is the appraisal clause? It is simply an insurance provision allowing either the insurer or the vehicle owner to demand a binding appraisal of damaged property in the event of a dispute as to its value. An independent appraiser is hired by both sides. If they can’t agree, The Appraisal Clause can be invoked by either party. One would hope that this process produces equitable settlement amounts but it doesn’t always work that way. Both retail and fair market value can be subjective. Insurance companies place certain roadblocks such as only recognizing comparable vehicles from tight geographic areas. Insurers disallow recognized sources of book values such as NADA, preferring to use the CCC valuation method which was developed for the insurance industry. Often misrepresentations of prior damage and conditioning or inadequate allowances for mileage differences occur. Even more complicated and arbitrary are Appraisal Clause proceedings involving diminished value.

If the car owner and the insurance company disagree on the value of the vehicle, either may make a written demand to invoke The Appraisal Clause. Each party will select a competent and impartial appraiser. It is preferable that both are licensed appraisers in at least one state. The two appraisers, if in disagreement over the value, will select an umpire. If the appraisers do not agree on an umpire, the matter goes to a judge of the court having jurisdiction.

In the event that The Appraisal Clause is invoked and an umpire is necessary, each party will pay its chosen appraiser and bear the expenses of the umpire equally. This means of alternative dispute resolution is designed to effectively and cost efficiently resolve disputes by avoiding the typical legal process. Arbitration, also known as mediation, acknowledges the existence of a dispute. Each party has the right to specify the credentials of the umpire. The naming of a third-party to serve as an umpire is not a selection until the other has agreed to accept him. He must be both competent and disinterested. Independent appraisers being considered as umpires that receive most of their work from insurance companies have often been considered “advocates” rather than disinterested parties and subsequently disqualified. The same would apply to independent appraisers who derive most of their work from, for example, a large automobile leasing company or network of dealerships.

In order to trigger The Appraisal Clause, both parties must be unable to agree on the value of the property or amount of the loss.The umpire should be free of undue influences and not have prior relationships with any party involved. This strengthens the expectation of good faith in the selection process. The umpire’s authority is usually limited to determining the value of the property. Issues such as coverage, liability, causation and exclusions should be determined before The Appraisal Clause in invoked. Appraisal awards are most often made by umpires who are not experts in law or the judicial process but their rulings are typically enforceable. Umpires are not free to disregard pertinent evidence lest their awards be set aside by magistrates. Both the claimant and the insurance company are bound by the obligation to exercise good faith and fair dealing in the context of The Appraisal Clause. It is not permissible for either the claimant or insurance company to engage in any tactics designed to defeat the appraisal process from its objectives. Neither party may engage in conduct designed to unreasonably postpone, delay or prevent The Appraisal Clause and the subsequent settlement.

The Appraisal Clause in total loss disputes has become the methodology of choice for resolving disputes over the values of automobiles and trucks. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is an expert in the field of valuation appraisals for all types of motor vehicles in all 50 states. Our clients are assured of competent reporting and, of course, credible participation in the arbitration and mediation process.

Additional fees you may incur are $125.00 for our representation in Appraisal Clause negotiations, and half of an umpire’s fee (Umpires typically charge from $300 – $700) if either are necessary. On average, approximately 10% of Appraisal Clause cases go to an umpire.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY
REQUEST AN AUTOMOBILE VALUATION APPRAISAL – $275.00 for most cars.

Please eMail the insurance company CCC or other valuation report to Email: contact@stlucieappraisal.net

DIMINISHED VALUE IN NEW CARS

June 4, 2024June 3, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS DIMINISHED VALUE IN NEW CARS?

New cars at dealerships can get damaged in various ways that aren’t the fault of the dealer. These include customer mishaps in the lot, damages caused by car carriers and, of course, the inevitable accidents that customers get into with their loaners. After repairs are completed, the automobile or truck goes back into the new car inventory. But these vehicles are different in that they have been devalued by the repair history, sometimes by tens of thousands of dollars. New car buyers that would even consider buying them will be looking for deep discounts. Can the dealerships recoup this loss in their bottom line? The answer is yes, if the damages to the vehicle were caused by someone else’s negligence. It is known as Automobile Diminished Value and the insurance companies of responsible parties – the rubbernecking customer, the trucker from hell or the careless loaner driver – are on the hook for it in every state. Diminished Value is not a claim that only pertains to used cars. New cars are also subject to diminished value and The St. Lucie Appraisal Company is pleased to be providing Automobile Diminished Value Reports to new car dealerships in all 50 states.

DIMINISHED VALUE IN NEW CARS – SOME ANSWERS
Q: As a new car dealer seeking a diminished value appraisal from your company, what information do I need to provide in order to get started?

A: At the bottom of the page you will find a blue rectangular box in which reads “Request an Automobile Damage Report.” Click on it to make a $275.00 payment to The St. Lucie Appraisal Company then email both a completed repair estimate and the new car sticker to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com

Q: Once we receive your report and forward it to the adjuster handling our claim, what type of response can we expect from the insurance company?

A: Our reports are based on the unbiased opinions of six General Sales Managers at recognized new car dealerships. Unlike appraisals based on formulas or appraisers’ expert opinions, ours are very difficult to dispute.

Q: How much value per car or truck should our dealership expect to lose as a result of new cars now having prior repair histories?

A: Unlike some of the unfortunate private passenger car and truck owners whose vehicles lose significant value, especially when frame repairs or air bag deployments were noted, most new cars aren’t usually wrecked too badly. There are, of course exceptions to the rule. A new Corvette Z07 Coupe which got pinballed around the dealer lot by a customer’s car lost 37.08% of its value, or $39,814.65, after undergoing $44,000.00 in repairs that included structural components. A new Kia Soul! lost 43.75% of its value after similar circumstances occurred. Most new cars with Carfaxes showing minor repairs typically lose only 10% to 20% in value. It is the dealer’s choice whether to recover it or not. The general manager of an automotive dealership has a high level of accountability. They are chiefly responsible for its continuous profitability. Being compensated thousands of dollars every time diminished value occurs fits in with that objective.

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After making your secure payment please email the body shop estimate or insurance company appraisal to contact@autodiminishedvalue.com TESLA AND OTHER EXOTIC CAR OWNERS PLEASE CALL FOR RATES.

Hire an Expert Antique, Classic and Custom Automobile Appraiser

When Bringing a Diminished Value Lawsuit to Small Claims Court, Be Prepared to Win

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE

When Bringing a Diminished Value Lawsuit to Small Claims Court, Be Prepared to Win

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS DIMINISHED VALUE IN NEW CARS?

WE DON’T USE FORMULAS, ALGORITHMS, AD COMPARISONS OR OTHER SHORT CUTS
SIX UNBIASED DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISAL TO VALIDATE OUR RESEARCH
TELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE