Machinery and Equipment (M&E) appraisers need to consider and rely on various sources, while weighing the key components of both the sales comparison and cost approach, to fully flesh out a balanced estimate of value. Research is crucial; however, the ultimate analysis involves understanding all the pieces of data and how they fit together to effectively conclude on value.
It is important that an appraiser discern between available market and industry sources and differentiate which are reliable and which may not be. In some cases, you might believe there is a level of bias associated with certain data and opinions, such as a vendor or OEM that is advising that their equipment is second to none. A vital role of an accredited appraiser is to sift through the sum of the information and determine how best to put the right pieces together to arrive at a reasonable value.
An appraiser's level of experience is vital to deciphering this. Not only determining which sources appear most consistent and reasonable, but also making common-sense determinations on how the specific assets being valued would realistically trade in a secondary market based on their specifications.
There will be times when the equipment is very uncommon, with no secondary market information available to research. In other cases, the appraiser will have dozens of sources available to consider, with a wide array of differing price points. Each situation will present challenges in determining how best to conduct the analysis and arrive at a supportable assessment.
The purpose of the appraisal, as well as the definition of value being applied, will steer you to weigh the cost and market approaches a certain way. An appraiser's proper adjustment to each situation is based on their experience and understanding of the transactional picture and the scope of work for each assignment.
Keep in mind the conclusion of value is the appraiser’s determination, and theirs alone. The sources they rely upon are not responsible, nor are they the ones being paid to provide an independent estimate.
An opinion is always going to have some degree of subjectivity behind it, regardless of how much data supports it, and that’s okay. The more knowledge and experience an appraiser has, backed up by a reasonable amount of supporting data, the better the outcome will be.