Auto Appraisal Network is a specialist franchise brand offering certified vehicle appraisal services across the United States. Founded in 1989, the company is headquartered in Laguna Niguel, California.

The brand began franchising in 2007 and currently supports a network of territory-owners who deliver professional appraisal reports for classic cars, custom vehicles, motorcycles, boats and RVs.

The franchise provides appraisal solutions for use in insurance claims, divorce settlements, estate planning, fair market resale and financing situations.

What differentiates Auto Appraisal Network from competitors is its national recognition among insurance companies and courts, strong franchisee training program and its focus on bespoke vehicle valuations for custom, modern and vintage vehicles.

Training

Auto Appraisal Network offers a structured training program to ensure franchisees are prepared to successfully operate their business. This training encompasses both initial instruction and ongoing requirements for key personnel.

1. Initial Training: The franchisor provides a mandatory five-day training program for the franchisee and one additional person, typically held at its headquarters in Laguna Niguel, California or another designated location. This training covers operational methods, marketing, sales, vehicle appraisal techniques, and use of required technology.
2. Additional Staff Training: Franchisees can request training for more than two people, but each additional person incurs a $2,500 fee. Alternatively, the franchisee may train new staff under certain conditions if they’ve completed the franchisor’s training and remain in good standing.
3. Refresher Courses: Franchisees and key management personnel may be required to attend refresher training programs or conventions, limited to seven days annually, to maintain compliance and stay updated on system changes.
4. Replacement Training: If the designated principal or general manager leaves, their replacement must promptly attend and complete the initial training, unless the franchisee is approved to conduct internal training under franchisor guidelines.

Territory Protection

Auto Appraisal Network grants franchisees a protected Designated Marketing Area (DMA), within which no other franchises will be established. Franchisees may accept orders from outside their DMA, but they cannot advertise in another franchisee's territory. The DMA boundaries can only be changed by mutual written agreement.

Territory protection depends on meeting quarterly performance standards. If demographics shift or client demand exceeds the franchisee’s capacity, the franchisor may establish another unit but may offer the franchisee the first right of refusal. Expansion rights beyond the DMA require a separate Area Development Agreement.