Below is an in-depth look at how we at Diminished Value of Georgia craft our appraisal reports—combining rigorous methodology, proprietary market data, and decades of hands-on experience to produce court-quality, USPAP-compliant documentation.
In each report, we:
- Establish pre-loss value with independent market data.
- Perform a line-by-line collision damage analysis.
- Source current comparables to capture real-time market shifts.
- Determine post-loss value and calculate the true diminished amount.
- Compile a crystal-clear, audit-ready report accepted by all major insurers.
Our Methodological Foundation
We adhere strictly to USPAP standards, ensuring every step—from data collection to final reconciliation—meets the ethical and technical requirements set by the Appraisal Standards Board.
Our appraisers are ASE- and I-CAR-certified, with over 30 years of combined experience, so you get more than numbers—you get seasoned insight.
Step 1: Pre-Loss Value Determination
First, we pinpoint your vehicle’s fair market value before the incident, using independent sales data from multiple nationally recognized sources.
This mirrors the industry’s best practices for establishing a reliable baseline, as recommended by top appraisers.
Step 2: Collision Damage Analysis
Next, we conduct a detailed inspection and line-item review of all repair operations, rating each work order by its impact on vehicle integrity.
Unlike cursory checklists, our approach evaluates structural, mechanical, and cosmetic factors—ensuring no hidden compromise goes unnoticed.
Step 3: Market Research & Comparables
With the pre- and post-repair condition established, we tap into current wholesale and retail indexes—Manheim, Cox Automotive, auction results, and regional Carfax trends—to select the most relevant comparables.
This real-time market intel lets us quantify how tariff shifts, seasonal demand, and local supply constraints affect your vehicle’s value.
Step 4: Post-Loss Value Determination
Combining condition adjustments with our comparables analysis, we calculate the vehicle’s fair market value after repairs.
The difference between pre- and post-loss values yields the true “diminished value” figure—fully supported by data and ready for insurer review.
Step 5: Report Compilation & Delivery
Finally, we assemble a USPAP-compliant report that includes:
- Photographic documentation of damage and repairs.
- Detailed cost breakdowns and market data exhibits.
- A narrative explaining our methodology and sources.
- A clear valuation reconciliation section.
Our clients receive a professionally bound PDF (or hard-copy upon request) designed to stand up under the toughest scrutiny.
Why USPAP Matters
USPAP compliance isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the industry’s gold standard for credibility and uniformity.
Insurers know a USPAP-aligned report is defensible in court and arbitration, which usually translates to faster, higher settlements for our clients.
For a detailed walkthrough or to schedule your independent appraisal, contact Diminished Value of Georgia today—and let us fight to recover every dollar of your vehicle’s lost worth.
