Why We Don't Do Desktop Appraisals
A desktop appraisal — sometimes called an analysis, valuation opinion, or no-inspection estimate — is based on partial information and cannot account for the specific aircraft's configuration, maintenance history, damage record, or current physical condition. At OakTree Aviation Services, we do not consider these to be appraisals, and we do not offer them.
What Desktop Appraisals Cannot Tell You
A desktop estimate relies on pricing guides, automated tools, or limited data inputs without ever seeing the aircraft. This means it cannot account for:
Actual physical condition of airframe, engine, and interior
Real avionics configuration versus what was originally delivered
Quality and completeness of maintenance history
Prior damage, repairs, and their effect on value
Modifications, STCs, and equipment upgrades
Corrosion, wear patterns, and cosmetic condition
Two aircraft of the same make, model, and year can differ in value by tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars based on these factors alone.
The Risk of Relying on Desktop Values
Relying on a desktop value when a full appraisal is warranted can expose lenders, attorneys, fiduciaries, and owners to avoidable risk. If the value is later challenged, audited, or tested in litigation, a desktop estimate will not withstand scrutiny because it lacks the documented evidence that a proper appraisal provides.
Banks risk overvaluing collateral. Attorneys risk presenting unsupported values to the court. Estate fiduciaries risk failing their duty of care. Buyers risk overpaying. In every case, the cost of a proper on-site appraisal is far less than the cost of getting the value wrong.
Request a Real Appraisal
Every aircraft assignment we accept is completed with a defined scope of work and on-site inspection. Contact OakTree Aviation Services to discuss your appraisal requirement and receive a fee quote.