Preparing Items for Evaluation: Cleaning, Docs, Photos, What Not to Do

When you’re ready to use a luxury asset to secure a loan, preparing it for evaluation can help ensure you receive the maximum possible loan-to-value (LTV) offer. A smooth evaluation process is built on completeness and transparency.

Here is a simple guide on what to do—and what not to do.

What TO Do:

Gather All Documentation: This is the most important step. Find the original box, papers, warranty card, receipts, and any service records. For jewelry, this includes GIA, AGL, or other lab certificates. For art, it includes any provenance documentation or bills of sale. “Box and papers” establish authenticity and significantly increase an item’s value.
Take Clear, Well-Lit Photos: Before your appointment, take photos of your item against a plain background (like a white sheet or table). Capture the front, back, and any important details like signatures, hallmarks, or serial numbers. This helps our specialists do preliminary research.
Do a Gentle Wipe-Down: It’s fine to wipe a watch or piece of jewelry with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints.

What NOT to Do:

Do NOT Attempt a “Deep Clean”: Never use abrasive chemicals, polishing cloths, or ultrasonic cleaners at home. You can easily damage an item and destroy its value. For example, polishing a vintage watch case or a designer handbag’s leather can reduce its value by thousands. Always bring items “as-is.”
Do NOT Worry if You’re Missing Papers: While “box and papers” are ideal, they are not required. Our experts can authenticate and value your item based on its own merits. We have valued and provided loans on countless items without original documentation.
Do NOT Get a Prior Appraisal: A retail insurance appraisal (which reflects the cost to replace an item new) is very different from its fair market value (what it would sell for today). Our offers are based on fair market value. You don’t need to spend money on an outside appraisal; our evaluation is complimentary and confidential.

The goal is to present a complete, honest picture of your asset. The more information and documentation you provide, the faster our specialists can complete their evaluation and provide you with a firm loan offer.

To schedule a complimentary and confidential evaluation of your assets, please contact our team.