The expression "Buyer Beware" should be front and centre when choosing service providers, especially when the area of expertise you require is largely unregulated.
Being aware of what to look for when choosing an Aircraft Acquisition & Appraisal Specialist can make the difference between the success and failure of a given project.
At first glance, most websites promoting “aircraft appraisal services” are well-formulated and have an air of professionalism. Strong statements about the experience in the aviation industry in general and aircraft appraisal in particular are a common thread. It’s when you start to look deeper that questions can arise.
Take a deeper look.
1) Look for terms like Certified, or Senior Certified Aircraft Appraiser.
2) Look for an entity providing the ”initial certification” and if there are any references to ongoing annual training and recertification of the appraiser.
3) Look at the certifying entity, do a search to determine if it is current, or one that did exist at some point but ceased operations years ago.
There are situations where unscrupulous service providers deliberately create the impression that a defunct organization, or one that is fictitious is the certifying body for their appraisers and therefore their appraisal reports. Some websites will turn up in a simple Google search, appear legitimate, but on further scrutiny, you find they are operating under false pretences. A good example is the National Aircraft Appraisers Association (NAAA) which operated for many years and was a reputable organization. In 2018, the original NAAA ceased operations and no longer exists, however, if you google the NAAA you will be directed to websites that purport to provide NAAA certified appraisals. And when you look through these websites you are left with the impression the NAAA still exists. This deception speaks volumes to the integrity or lack thereof of the individuals who are associated with these sites.
There’s never a problem until there is a problem.
When engaging the services of a provider who lacks integrity, and an issue with the report is noted, you now have a situation where the credibility of the report and/or its author are brought into question. If you have done your due diligence and vetted the service provider, you can rest easy that you have done everything possible to ensure a credible service provider was hired. If you have not done your due diligence in selecting a service provider and fully vetting their credentials, and the credibility of the appraiser is brought into question, your reputation and creditability could be severely impacted.
Let “Cavate Emptor” be your guiding light, and the first line of defense in protecting your reputation.