Tag: claim - Page 2 - THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

Diminished Value Little Rock

September 16, 2025September 16, 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. A diminished value appraisal of a Chevrolet Traverse LT1 AWD SUV with 8,684 miles that was involved in a right side collision that caused $15,982.08 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed, had structural damage and air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Chevrolet dealerships in Arkansas – One dealer said that because the car is so new it will take the biggest hit around 40% normally could be half unfortunately, especially because there is air bags deployed and frame damage which generally would go to the auction. Another dealer explained that because the Carfax would be listed as the most severe accident they would not be able to give us the book for the car unfortunately they would have to resell wholesale on this due to the amount of damage listed you could see a loss of close to 50%.

The opinions of six unbiased professional sales managers at recognized new car dealerships form the basis for the most comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal available. We obtain six of them to validate the diminished value report prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.

The six dealers providing opinions regarding diminished value were given information specific to this vehicle including year, make, model, mileage, pre-accident condition, 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 Chevrolet dealers in Arkansas 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.

A Diminished Value Claim in Little Rock, Arkansas

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the right side including damage to structural components and air bag deployment. Repair cost $15,982.08. 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 42.50%. 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 $30,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $12,750.00

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

Arkansas, Ashley, Baxter, Benton, Boone, Bradley, Calhoun, Carroll,
Chicot, Clark, Clay, Cleburne, Cleveland, Columbia, Conway, Craighead, Crawford, Cross, Dallas, Desha, Drew, Faulkner, Franklin, Fulton,, Garland,, Grant,, Greene, Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Lafayette, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Little River, Logan, Lonoke, Madison, Marion, Miller, Mississippi, Monroe, Montgomery, Nevada, Newton, Ouachita, Perry, Phillips, Pike, Poinsett, Polk, Pope, Prairie, Pulaski, Randolph, Saint Francis, Saline, Scott, Searcy, Sebastian, Sevier, Sharp, Stone, Union, Van Buren, Washington, White, Woodruff and Yell Counties. auto appraiser near 72204, auto appraiser near 72206, auto appraiser near 72209

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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Diminished Value Tucson

September 16, 2025September 16, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. A diminished value appraisal of a Lexus IS 200t with 14,891 miles that was involved in a Rear-end collision that caused $4,924.38 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed, had no structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM 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.

YOUR CAR WAS WRECKED AND REPAIRED.WHAT DO YOU DO NEXT?

We learned from these examples from sales managers at Lexus dealerships in Arizona and surrounding states – One dealer said as long as there is no frame damage and no air bag deployment then it would be minor accident and if the Carfax shows minor accident maybe a 10-15% loss at most. Another dealer relayed that they would take it on a trade-in, $5,000 worth of damage is pretty minor being the sticker price exceeds 20 k if it was fixed well and you don’t mind losing a few thousand dollars+++ then they would take it off your hands.

We contacted several Lexus dealers in Arizona and surrounding states 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.

A Diminished Value Claim in Tucson, Arizona

Description of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the Rear with no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $4,924.38. LKQ (used) and/or aftermarket parts not were utilized in the repair/not factored in to the diminished value.

The average of six (6) deductions was 14.08%. 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 $25,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $3,520.00

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 throughout Arizona including Apache Junction, Avondale, Buckeye, Bullhead City, Casa Grande, Chandler, Flagstaff, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Lake Havasu City, Marana, Mesa, Oro Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Prescott, Scottsdale, Sierra Vista, Surprise, Tempe, Tucson and Yuma.

Apache, Cochise, Coconino, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, Navajo, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yavapai, Yuma Counties. auto appraiser near 85711, auto appraiser near Tucson, claim, diminished value, near 85705, near 85706, near 85710, near 85713, near 85719, near 85745, near 85746

Diminished Value Knoxville

October 14, 2025August 24, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. This article details the diminished value appraisal of a Tesla Model 3 Long Range Sedan with 20,045 miles that was involved in a Left Side collision that caused $15,619.68 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed, had structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 exotic new car dealerships in Tennessee – One dealer said it would not be something they would take, could be 30-50% less in value depending on how it looks after repairs. They would not be a buyer but could be a third party facilitator. Another dealer explained it’s not a situation that is not gonna work in your favor that’s a piece they wouldn’t keep, look at losing about half the value because now the structural integrity has been compromised so they wouldn’t be able to certify the car.

The opinions of six unbiased professional sales managers at recognized exotic new car dealerships form the basis for the most comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal available. We obtain six of them to validate the diminished value report prepared by AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.

We contacted several exotic new car dealers in Tennessee 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 Left Side with damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $15,619.58. 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 39.17%. 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 $47,500.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $18,605.75

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM
Before 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 37919, auto appraiser near 37922, auto appraiser near 37931

DID YOUR AUTO BODY SHOP TELL YOU ABOUT DIMINISHED VALUE?

August 21, 2025August 21, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

When an auto body shop owner goes out of his way to recommend an independent auto appraiser such as The St. Lucie Appraisal Company to prepare a customer’s automobile diminished value appraisal, it demonstrates their commitment to good customer service.

GMC Sierra Denali Diminished Value Claim in Montgomery, Alabama

August 20, 2025August 19, 2025 by stlucieappraisal

St. Lucie Automobile and Diminished Value Appraiser

WE ARE THE BEST AND MOST TRUSTED AUTO DIMINISHED VALUE APPRAISERS IN THE COUNTRY. OUR COMPANY VALIDATES OUR DIMINISHED VALUE RESEARCH BY SPEAKING TO THE SALES MANAGERS AT SIX GMC DEALERSHIPS IN ALABAMA. THIS SUPPORTS OUR EXPERT OPINIONS, PROVIDING PROBATIVE EVIDENCE TO STRENGTHEN YOUR INSURANCE CLAIM OR COURT CASE.

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a GMC Denali AWD Crew Cab with 8,095 miles that was involved in a Front and Rear Collision that caused $23,494.71 in damage.

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.

HOW TO MAKE A SUCCESSFUL DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIM

November 12, 2023October 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

There is a gold standard when it comes to automobile diminished value appraisers and it is known as AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM, a service of The St. Lucie Appraisal Company available in all 50 states. If you ask any insurance adjuster or any of our competitors and you are liable to hear it from them as well. Insurance companies such as State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, USAA, Safeco, Progressive, Liberty Mutual and most of the rest have seen our diminished value appraisals. And we have looked at appraisals prepared by just about every independent appraiser – but most of them have ever seen one of ours. Why not? Our appraisals don’t get tossed out for demonstrating a “lack of proof” of diminished value. Theirs do, and when we are called upon for a second opinion, we get to see many of their sad excuses for appraisals.
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

What goes without saying is that the insurance adjuster assigned to your case will make a ridiculously low initial settlement offer, regardless of how comprehensive an appraisal you’ve provided. It is when you start to push them, however – when the claim gets escalated to a supervisor or an unfair claim practices complaint is made to an insurance department that things get interesting. That’s when your appraisal gets sent upstairs to their defense attorneys for review. What, exactly are the lawyers looking for?

When an insurance company defense attorney looks over a diminished value appraisal that was prepared in less than ten minutes using a formula or what many appraisers have taken to calling “algorithms,” they see a document that will look as foreign to a magistrate or mediator as Sanskrit. Diminished value appraisals using automobile auction results aren’t valid as evidence because they represent a completely different market. The online ad comparison method is invalid as well. Two identical cars, listed for the same asking price, can be found,but one of which has an accident history. What is to prevent the seller of the previously-repaird car to ask an unrealistically-high price? You need absolute proof that your car or truck has lost value.

AUTODIMINISHEDVALUE.COM provides what insurance defense attorneys fear most – irrefutable evidence of diminished value, based on the unbiased opinions of six managers at new car dealerships – the people who, day in and day out, purchase and take these bad Carfax cars in trades. Recognizing a valid methodology that any judge can easily understand, insurance company lawyers attorneys are far more likely to advise their adjusters to settle.

Obtaining this detailed information is time consuming but its time well-spent because to be the gold standard in automobile diminished value appraisals, it’s what you’ve got to do. You’ve got to put in the time.

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 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

APPRAISING A MOTORCYCLE FOR FINANCING OR INSURANCE

November 12, 2023October 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company, Automobile Appraisers in all 50 States 772-359-4300 contact@stlucieappraisal.net

Appraising a motorcycle for financing or insurance qualifies as a necessity when requirements dictate. In addition to accuracy, an appraiser who prepares a valuation report for a motorcycle should strive to present professional-looking documents that will impress a bank, credit union or insurance company as being valid. There are other reasons that appraisals may be necessary such as in matters involving tax-deductible donations estates, bankruptcy, purchase & sale, damage claims, a total loss dispute or equitable distribution.

MOTORCYCLE APPRAISER IN ALL 50 STATES 772-359-4300

Appraising and donating a motorcycle to charity is both worthwhile and financially beneficial to you. A motorcycle can enhance many lives through the funds they provide when sold or auctioned. The tax deduction that is enjoyed by the donor is, of course, another good reason for considering such a gift. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company provides fair market valuation appraisals in all 50 states for many useful purposes such as estate dissolution, equitable distribution, damage claims as well as for donations. Knowledge of motorcycles is one key requirement but another essential necessity that an appraiser of motorcycles needs is a database of past sales of comparable items. Whether the appraisal is going to the IRS, an insurance company, a bank or a magistrate, it must be documented by sources for the information contained therein. In the case of a tax deductible donation in excess of $5,000.00, you must have a written appraisal in which the appraiser will complete an IRS Form 8283 for you.

Due to changes in IRS reporting requirements, a motorcycle can no longer be appraised by the dealer where it was purchased unless the item will be donated within two months of when it was acquired. If the vehicle is worth less than $5000.00, then usually you don’t need to hire an appraiser to value it for you. Like most automobiles, motorcycles can be evaluated by year, make, model and condition. Other factors that should be considered are whether motorcycles have been upgraded or customized.

Insuring a motorcycle is usually a straightforward process unless upgrades or custom work was done. Claims, however, are a different story. Obtaining a fair settlement for a wrecked, stolen or total loss motorcycle can be a nightmare because insurance companies are far less accommodating paying claims then they are in collecting premiums. An appraisal based on real world comparables is a necessity in these cases.

Hire an Expert to Appraise your Motorcycle for Donations, Financing or Insurance

Obtaining financing from a bank or credit union for the purchase of a motorcycle often requires the borrower to have it appraised. Motorcycles depreciate over time so lenders are careful about financing used bikes. The Kelly Blue Book and NADA motorcycle evaluation guides don’t address upgrades and customization. Many motorcycles have been refurbished to a degree that will extend their lifespans by many years. Choppers also fall into this category. Banks and credit unions, when searching through their guide books can’t help but fail to realize these and decline to offer adequate loans. Hiring a licensed appraiser is a means to obtaining the necessary financing.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company has provided valuation appraisals for motorcycles since 1981. We are licensed appraisers and provide service in all 50 states. The cost of a fair market value appraisal depends upon the research necessary to make an accurate determination. However, with the extensive database of past and present sales at our disposal, we can most often provide an appraisal of a motorcycle for $275.00.

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

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

Porsche Macan Diminished Value Claim in Redmond, Washington

November 12, 2023October 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 Porsche Macan with 17,289 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $16,759.37 in damage. The car was disabled/towed and had no structural damage or 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 Porsche dealerships in Washington, Oregon and surrounding states- Porsche dealers would have to wholesale the car and would not resell it on the lot. Also, normally buyers when spending this kind of money on a vehicle would like to see a clean Carfax and will expect a “deal” and also at one dealership if the car has 16k worth of damage you are looking at a huge loss of value – at least 25%.

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 Porsche dealers in Washington and surrounding states 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 not including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $16,759.37. 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 22.92%. 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 $47,500.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $10,887.00.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

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

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

Service in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, Kent, Everett, Renton, Yakima, Federal Way, Spokane Valley, Kirkland, Bellingham, Kennewick, Auburn, Pasco, Marysville, Lakewood, Redmond, South Hill, Shoreline, Richland, Sammamish, Burien, Olympia and throughout Washington.

Adams, Asotin, Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Columbia, Cowlitz, Douglas, Ferry, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lewis, Lincoln, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Pend Oreille, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Skamania, Snohomish, Spokane, Stevens, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Walla Walla, Whatcom, Whitman and Yakima Counties. auto appraiser near 98012, auto appraiser near 98052, auto appraiser near 98208, auto appraiser near 98682, auto appraiser near 99301

ALFA-ROMEO 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. The Alfa-Romeo, being a car that attracts more discriminating buyers, suffers 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. Alfa-Romeo owners are typically upscale folks who 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, Alfa-Romeo Diminished Value and Loss of Use claims are our specialty.

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. Alfa-Romeo diminished value and loss of use claims should present no problems if appraisals are prepared correctly.

Getting back to Alfa-Romeo and the difficulty obtaining proper diminished value information for the owners of these cars. When we receive an assignment to prepare a diminished value appraisal for a BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Porsche, there is a nationwide network of dealers from whom we can obtain opinions. Not so with Alfa-Romeo. Dealers are few and far between. Therefore, obtaining the six verifiable quotes from Alfa-Romeo dealers that we feel are necessary to populate an irrefutable diminished value report is difficult.

ALFA-ROMEO DIMINISHED VALUE AND LOSS OF USE CLAIMS

So where does this leave the Alfa-Romeo 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 Alfa-Romeo used car market. As for the independent appraisers that use automobile auction results, they are completely out of luck since so few Alfa-Romeos are put up for auction.

The St. Lucie Appraisal Company, despite being a small fish in the big pond of independent automobile diminished value appraisers, has gained the lion’s share of diminished value and loss of use requests from Alfa-Romeo owners due chiefly to word of mouth. It has been not only Alfa-Romeo owners but also the certified Alfa-Romeo repair shop managers who have sent their customers, friends and families to us.

Finally, with regard to Loss of Use claims, it costs $500 per day to rent a Dream Car such as the Tesla S from one of the Hertz locations in California. Anywhere else in the US, you can rent a marginally comparable car, a Porsche Panamera for $350 per day. Why do insurance companies feel that they can get away with offering lower-priced replacement vehicles to Alfa-Romeo owners? It is common knowledge that a wrecked Alfa-Romeo can take up to 60 days to repair. A typical Loss of Use report for a Alfa-Romeo owner whose car is laid up for two months is in excess of $25,000.00 which includes the Daily Collision Damage Waiver. Of special note: It is not necessary to actually rent a car in order to receive compensation for Loss of Use.

READ CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE ST. LUCIE APPRAISAL COMPANY

The fee for an Automobile Diminished Value Report is $350.00. Tesla and other exotic car owners please call for rates. You may also make your Credit Card Payment by telephone, call 772-359-4300.

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

A GMC Diminished Value Claim in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

November 12, 2023October 20, 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 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Crew Cab Pickup with 21,776 miles that was involved in a rear-end collision that caused $2,381.79 in damage. The truck was not disabled and had no structural damage or air bag deployment.The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 CUTSSIX DEALER QUOTES IN EVERY APPRAISALTELEPHONE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS FREE-OF-CHARGE
We learned from these examples from sales managers – In most cases the buyer will want to see the Carfax and when they see it was in an accident -potential buyers want a big discount. Also that some dealers won’t take this car at all with ANY accident. The opinions of unbiased experts form the basis for a comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal. We obtain six of them which puts an appraisal prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company in the ballpark. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.

We contacted several GMC dealers in South Florida 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.

FLORIDA ADJUSTERS LICENSE — FLORIDA LICENSEDINDEPENDENT ADJUSTER

Description of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the Left Rear not including structural components. Repair cost $2,381.79. 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 11.39%. 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 $30,000.00 at the time of loss. Diminished Value = $3,417.00

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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 Altamonte Springs, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Bradenton, Cape Coral, Clearwater, Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Davie, Daytona Beach, Delray Beach, Deltona, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Pierce, Gainesville, Hialeah, Hollywood, Homestead, Jacksonville, Jupiter, Kissimmee, Lakeland, Largo, Lauderhill, Margate, Melbourne, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Gardens, Miramar, North Port, Ocala, Orlando, Palm Bay, Pembroke Pines, Pensacola, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Port Orange, Port St. Lucie, St. Petersburg, Sanford, Stuart, Sunrise, Tallahassee, Tamarac, Tampa, Vero Beach, Wellington, Weston and throughout Florida. auto appraiser near 33023, auto appraiser near 33024, auto appraiser near 33331

THE INDEPENDENT APPRAISER’S ROLE IN AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIMS

November 12, 2023October 17, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

The independent appraiser should not be part of the claim in which the automobile diminished value is in question, but is usually brought in from the outside to preserve impartiality. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company’s purpose and function is definite and simple. We must determine the existence and amount of diminished value in order to make the claimant whole. In doing so, our focus is always the fair and equitable treatment of both our client and the insurance company involved.

In a sense, the diminished value claim is an intellectual problem for both the insurance company and the claimant. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company stands as a surrogate for the claimant, as well as being the competition for the insurance company. That is, the independent appraiser finds the relevant information and, if he is playing fairly, presents his Diminished Value Report to the claimant along with a demand letter. The independent appraiser needs to emphasize the significance of each bit of information. Experience and intelligence mesh, making the independent appraiser a person who finds solutions to problems and dilemmas that seem to have no solution. He makes the connections that reveal the solution, as well as revealing the truth about the situation at large. He is a necessary figure in the access he has to people – the sales managers at recognized new car dealerships. He should be a specialist in disseminating information accurately in order to arrive at fair diminished value figures. Insurance companies must respect both the effort and the subsequent results.

THE INDEPENDENT APPRAISER IN AUTOMOBILE DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIMS

Even while testing our clients resolve to insist on fair treatment and trying to outlast them, insurance companies have given The St. Lucie Appraisal Company’s Diminished Value Reports a trust they rarely give those of other independent appraisers. Our reports compel them to face and to acknowledge when they are perpetrating unfair claim practices. But there is no doubt that the claimant must be persistent in following up on any suggestions the independent appraiser may make.

Though automobile diminished value claims are not an uplifting topic for an insurance company, an Automobile Diminished Value Report prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company influences them to recognize and admit both the harmful and time-consuming sides of claim mishandling, hopefully leading them from a dangerous and costly ignorance.

Answers and solutions can be found by people who are dedicated to the search for truth and who know where and how to look for the information that can lead to those solutions and answers. Insurance companies should, at the very least, use their capabilities of observation and logic to develop alternatives to their delay, denial and misinformation tactics. Low-ball settlement offers are contrary to good business despite how insurers view third-party diminished value claims because they project an appearance of bad faith industry wide.

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A Honda Diminished Value Claim in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

November 12, 2023October 14, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. A diminished value appraisal of a Honda Odyssey EX Van with 19,335 miles that was involved in a Front and Rear Collision that caused $14,255.71 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed, had structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Honda dealerships in Eastern Pennsylvania- One dealer said because of the vehicle having close to $15,000.00 worth of damage and frame being damaged you may be looking at taking a 40% hit in a trade-in. Also, if this were brand new the loss would be much higher typically when you have severe damage on accident report. And, another sales manager said that anytime there is severe damage on Carfax the loss will be severe so you may see a loss of 40% or higher.

We contacted several Honda dealers in Eastern Pennsylvania 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.

A Honda Diminished Value Claim in Philadelphia, PA

Description of damage: Disabling collision damages to the front and rear including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $14,255.71. 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 37.50%. 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 $20,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $7,500.00

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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 Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, Upper Darby Township, Scranton, Bethlehem, Bensalem, Lancaster, Lower Merion, Abington Township, Bristol, Millcreek, Harrisburg, Altoona, York, Stroudsburg, Wilkes-Barre and throughout Pennsylvania

Adams, Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Bradford, Bucks, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Carbon, Centre, Chester, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Crawford, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lawrence, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Mifflin, Monroe, Montgomery, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Perry, Philadelphia, Pike, Potter, Schuylkill, Snyder, Somerset, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Venango, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Westmoreland, Wyoming and York Counties. auto appraiser near 19104, auto appraiser near 19111, auto appraiser near 19120, auto appraiser near 19124, auto appraiser near 19134, auto appraiser near 19143, auto appraiser near 19149

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.

Porsche Diminished Value Claim in Reno, Nevada

November 12, 2023October 13, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. With regard to our diminished value appraisal of a Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe with 47,028 miles that was involved in a Rear-End Collision that caused $1,153.53 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed and had no structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Porsche dealerships in Nevada and surrounding states – Dealers would definitely take it as a trade however, because it does have a bad Carfax , depending on what the report says you could lose 10-15%. Also, as long as it is fixed correctly and there is not further damage such as frame or a branded title you shouldn’t see that much of a loss being that it’s a minor accident – maybe $3,500-$5,000 diminished value possible. And that 15% back is about typical for this type of listed damage

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

We contacted several Porsche dealers in Nevada 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.

Diminished Value Claim in Reno, NevadaDescription of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the Rear with no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $1,153.53. 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 10.83%. 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 $35,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $3,790.50

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Service in Carson City, Henderson, Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Reno, Sparks and throughout Nevada

Carson City, Churchill, Clark, Douglas, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, Pershing, Storey, Washoe and White Pine Counties. auto appraiser near 89436, auto appraiser near 89502, auto appraiser near 89506

A Diminished Value Claim on a Porsche in Jacksonville, Florida

November 12, 2023October 13, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

A diminished value appraisal of a Porsche 911 4S 6-Speed Automatic Coupe with 16,556 miles that was involved in a right side collision that caused $9,515.31 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed, had structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Porsche dealerships in North Florida – One dealer said normally when there is frame damage you can expect 35% less in trade and you would also have normal depreciation as well. Another dealer said that because it is a few years older there will be less of a hit than there would be if it was brand new if the car were 40k you may lose 20k depending on the extent of damage and what the report says.

We contacted several Porsche dealers in North Florida 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 Rear including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $9,515.31. 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 36.25%. 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 $78,000.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $28,275.00

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Alachua, Baker, Bay ,Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, De Soto, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Glades, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Holmes, Indian River, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okaloosa, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Seminole, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton and Washington Counties. auto appraiser near 32210, auto appraiser near 32218, auto appraiser near 32244, auto appraiser near 32256, auto appraiser near 32259

A New Car Diminished Value Claim in Bridgeport, Connecticut

November 12, 2023October 13, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

We report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. A diminished value appraisal of a new loaner MINI Cooper Convertible with 1.955 miles that was involved in a front collision that caused $2,396.72 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed, had no structural damage and no air bag deployment. The dealership hired an independent auto appraiser 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 MINI dealerships in Connecticut and surrounding states – One dealer explained that because it is a new vehicle you would take more of a hit. Normally when you try and sell a vehicle with a bad Carfax there will be a loss depending on the document and what is reported and the amount of damage and what the repairs look like will be the deciding factor on what the actual loss will be, his guess there may be a loss of a few thousand and can go as high as 4K. Another dealer said that due to the fact the car is new and there is already an accident on the Carfax there will definitely be a loss. Could be around 10 % of the cars value.

CONNECTICUT LICENSED INDEPENDENT AUTO APPRAISER

We contacted several MINI dealers in Connecticut to establish how these repairs and the resultant repair history would impact this vehicle’s Retail Value. Dealers were provided with an evaluation of the vehicle’s condition both prior and subsequent to repairs.

A New Car Diminished Value Claim in Bridgeport, ConnecticutDescription of damage: Non-disabling collision damages to the front with no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $2,396.72. 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 11.97%. This is the percentage of Diminished Value to be taken from the retail value at the time of loss.

We established that the above captioned vehicle had a Retail Value of approximately $27,500.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $3,291.75

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Service in Bridgeport, New Haven, Stamford, Hartford, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, New Britain, West Hartford, Greenwich, Hamden, Fairfield, Meriden, Bristol, Manchester, West Haven, Milford, Stratford, Middletown, Enfield, Wallingford, Southington, Norwich, Shelton, Groton, Trumbull, Torrington, Glastonbury, Naugatuck and throughout Connecticut. auto appraiser near 06484, auto appraiser near 06810. auto appraiser near 06606, auto appraiser near 06902

Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland and Windham Counties

WHY WAS YOUR DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIM DENIED?

November 12, 2023October 9, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each insurance company operates in its own manner when it comes to automobile diminished value claims. One constant, however, is that all of them strive to either delay, low ball or outright reject this type of claim in the hope that you, the vehicle owner, will become frustrated and simply give up. Why was your diminished value claim denied? First of all, it would be cavalier to imply that a diminished value report provided by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company will automatically be accepted and a settlement paid to the penny. That is simply not the case but when it comes to defending diminished value claims, insurance adjusters evaluate appraisals prepared by different independent appraisers and act upon them accordingly. If an insurance company determines that they have a good chance of prevailing in small claims or civil court, your claim could likely be denied. Conversely, when confronted with a comprehensive report that provides irrefutable proof of the existence and amount of value that your vehicle lost after collision repairs, they are forced to acknowledge the possibility of losing. In litigation, not only could you be awarded the full amount of diminished value, expenses such as the cost of the appraisal, expert witness and legal fees could also be recovered. Insurers would also bear the cost of their own experts and lawyers. It goes without saying that the prospect of losing in court isn’t particularly appealing to them.

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 have seen most of the diminished value reports that are prepared by independent appraisers. Methodologies vary but some, of course, are better than others. Was your Chevrolet damaged by the negligence of another party? Did the accident happen in Arizona, for instance? The St. Lucie Appraisal Company obtains the opinions of the sales managers at six Chevrolet dealers in Arizona based on the vehicle and the damages that were repaired. This method is time-consuming but ultimately provides the best proof of the existence and amount of diminished value.

WAS YOUR DIMINISHED VALUE CLAIM DENIED?

Some examples of how other independent appraisers calculate diminished value will surprise you. Even more surprising is that these appraisers actually charge you for reports that have absolutely no basis other than to point out the fact that they are “experts.” The reports from these appraisers came to our attention after we were hired after vehicle owners’ claims were rejected. The reasons are clear.

Ten examples used by independent appraisers:

The information contained herein, is based upon the information provided to me as well as the visual characteristics of the vehicle and its parts at the time of inspection. The opinions expressed herein are based upon; technical training, experience and acquired knowledge in this field of expertise.
Provides sales prices of comparable vehicles and then an arbitrary diminished value amount based on nothing whatsoever that is contained in their report. The appraiser concludes: “In arriving at this figure, I gave consideration to the concerns which a buyer, if knowledgeable that there was a potentially severe accident, would have, and the impact upon whether such buyer would buy the vehicle and the conditions upon which a buyer may buy the subject vehicle.”
Uses a formula similar to the discredited Rule 17-C. Corrective procedures “based on experience” reveal not only the flawed methodology but also a lack of real-world evidence to corroborate their findings.
“Based on my personal experience as a licensed Motor Vehicle Damage appraiser with 21 years of experience in the automotive field, ASE certified mechanic, Associates degree in Mechanical Technology, a licensed automotive inspection and emissions mechanic, review of the estimate, picture review and the type of repairs needed on the vehicle, I place the diminished value at $XXX.XX.”
Simply assigns a diminished value amount with no substantiating information.
“Although subject vehicle was repaired to industry standards, at this time, I find the above to show cause of a combined 15% loss to its dated fair market value.” Their report shows no methodology for determining this amount other than the appraiser’s personal opinion.
“In order to determine this vehicle’s ultimate Diminished Value, we have devised a Point System based on the following categories. They are in order of importance, with the first category representing the aspect of the repair process which has the most impact on the vehicle’s value.” This report uses a formula to calculate the amount of diminished value.
“With over 20 years experience appraising automobiles, it is our opinion that, as a result of this accident, the specific type of vehicle, its age and its miles, would result in the vehicle’s market value having diminished no less than $XXX.XX after satisfactory repairs. This reflects nothing more than the appraiser’s opinion.
“It is the opinion of this expert that there is evidence to suggest the value of the subject vehicle should be diminished value as a result of the body repairs.
Uses a formula based on Rule 17-C modifiers that do not reflect an actual loss of value based on any tangible evidence.

Submitting an automobile diminished value report that simply states an appraiser’s opinion based on their alleged expertise or on a random formula or algorithm guarantees a certain amount of push back from the insurance company. If a magistrate or mediator can’t understand the methodology or doubts the validity of an opinion-based appraisal, you have wasted your money on the report. The St. Lucie Appraisal Company doesn’t offer opinions. We leave that to the sales managers at recognized dealerships who buy and sell cars all day long. They are familiar with bad Carfaxes and how their customers shy away from such cars. They know how these cars fare at automobile auctions. Appraisers should not assume to know more. Hiring an independent appraiser to prepare a diminished value report? Caveat Emptor. Let the buyer beware.

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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.

Tesla and other exotic car owners please call for rates

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

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.

Diminished Value Claim Chicago

November 12, 2023September 22, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. This took place in Chicago, Illinois. Regarding our diminished value appraisal of a Hyundai Sonata Sport with 10,750 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $12,153.44 in damage. The car was disabled/towed and had structural damage and no air bag deployment.The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Hyundai dealerships in Illinois- A dealer will grudgingly take a structurally-damaged car in trade but it would bring more than 30% less in trade-in value. Also, that dealers might be likely to advise the vehicle owner to keep the car since it will take such a huge loss and also that a Hyundai with frame damage would go straight to auction after buying it from the vehicle owner for as little as half the value.

We contacted several Hyundai dealers in Illinois 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 $12,153.44. 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 $17,500.00 at the time of loss. The Diminished Value was $6,051.50.

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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.

Services available in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Bloomington, Bolingbrook, Champaign, Chicago, Cicero, Decatur, Des Plaines, Elgin, Evanston, Joliet, Naperville, Palatine, Peoria, Rockford, Schaumburg, Skokie, Springfield, Waukegan and throughout Illinois. auto appraiser near 60608, auto appraiser near 60617, auto appraiser near 60618, auto appraiser near 60623, auto appraiser near 60625, auto appraiser near 60629, auto appraiser near 60632, auto appraiser near 60634, auto appraiser near 60639, auto appraiser near 60647

Diminished Value San Francisco, CA

November 12, 2023September 20, 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 S P85 4 Door Sedan with 48,063 miles that was involved in a Front End Collision that caused $6,071.21 in damage. The vehicle was not disabled/towed, had no structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Northern California – Tesla buyers are particular and because of this they want a clean Carfax. Also that when you get in an accident and it gets reported you can’t get equal value and it’s hard to sell anything that has an accident report and the potential issue for them and they would want a deal and dealers usually take them to wholesale. Also that when you have a vehicle that has an accident report and its mild to moderate damage like this you would lose 20%++ on average. 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 Northern 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: Non-disabling collision damages to the Front not including damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $6,078.21. 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 19.17%. 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 $7,668.80.

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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 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 94102, auto appraiser near 94103, auto appraiser near 94107

Diminished Value Claim in Kansas City, MO

November 12, 2023September 14, 2023 by stlucieappraisal

Each week we report on the most interesting and informative articles concerning auto diminished value claims. A diminished value appraisal of a Chevrolet Traverse High Country AWD Wagon with 2,932 miles that was involved in a right side collision that caused $8,254.53 in damage. The vehicle was disabled/towed, had no structural damage and no air bag deployment. The claimant hired an independent auto appraiser 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 Chevrolet dealerships in Missouri – One dealer explained that because the vehicle is new and it already has bad Carfax there will be a loss which will be a bit higher versus if it were a few years older. Another dealer said said that the biggest hit will be due to the year of the vehicle and if it was fixed well, normal loss for something of this nature would be around 15-20% less
The opinions of six unbiased professional sales managers at recognized new car dealerships form the basis for the most comprehensive Auto Diminished Value Appraisal available. We obtain six of them to validate the diminished value report prepared by The St. Lucie Appraisal Company. This is what the car owner will experience in the real world.
The six dealers providing opinions regarding diminished value were given information specific to this vehicle including year, make, model, mileage, pre-accident condition, 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 Chevrolet dealers in Missouri 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 no damage to structural components and no air bag deployment. Repair cost $8,254.53. 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 12.92%. 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 $5,168.00

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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 Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Independence, Columbia, Lee’s Summit, O’Fallon, St. Joseph, St. Charles, St. Peters, Blue Springs, Florissant, Joplin, Chesterfield, Jefferson City and throughout Missouri. auto appraiser near 63301, auto appraiser near 63376, auto appraiser near 65203, auto appraiser near 65802, auto appraiser near 65807

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.
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