How We Determine Vehicle Value
A clear opinion starts with the right vehicle details and relevant market evidence.
IA Reports resource guide · Vehicle appraisal information
Start with the Assignment
We confirm the appraisal purpose, relevant valuation date and intended recipient. The same vehicle may need different supporting information for a sale, insurance coverage or a settlement disagreement.
Verify the Vehicle
We review identification, trim, mileage, equipment, documented condition and available history. Photos and records help establish what is being valued; limitations are stated where information cannot be verified.
Research and Explain
We research suitable market evidence, assess important differences and explain the conclusion. Asking prices are evidence to analyse, not automatic proof of a completed sale. The report should make the reasoning understandable.
Apply This to Your Vehicle.
Tell us what you need valued and the decision the appraisal will support.
Talk with an appraiser →Choose the Right Comparables
Comparable vehicles should reflect the subject’s actual configuration and relevant market. Location, availability, condition, equipment, kilometre readings and listing context can affect how useful a comparison is.
Explain Meaningful Adjustments
Trim, optional equipment, prior damage, restoration, mileage, working specifications and market scarcity may affect value. Material differences should be explained rather than applying unsupported blanket deductions or premiums.
How We Assess Whether a Comparison Is Useful
Like-For-Like Specification
Confirm the body style, trim, drivetrain and relevant options. A vehicle advertised with a similar name may have materially different equipment.
Relevant Market Context
Consider location, research date, availability and whether the listing reflects the market for the subject vehicle.
Condition and Usage
Review kilometres, service history, known damage, modifications and condition evidence when supported by the assignment.
Explain the Conclusion
Document why each comparable was considered, the differences that matter and the assumptions or limitations of the result.
An asking price is evidence of an advertised offer; it is not automatically proof of a completed transaction. No single adjustment formula is suitable for every vehicle or market.
Practical Appraisal Guidance
A Practical Comparable-Evidence Checklist
Before using a listing as market evidence, we ask whether it represents the same kind of asset in a reasonably comparable market.
Identity first
Are year, model, performance trim, drivetrain, body style and important equipment sufficiently similar?
Market relevance
How recent is the evidence, where was the vehicle offered, and is the advertised amount supported by additional market context?
Explain differences
Document material differences in kilometres, condition, history and installed equipment. Any adjustments should be reasoned and reviewable.