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A Legacy in Book FormA Legacy in Book Form

A client can document the emotional significance and actual monetary value of their possessions.

5 Min Read
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A legacy book, which details an individual’s possessions, including artwork and antiques, as well as what each is currently worth, is a remarkable tool for clients to document and communicate their values, beliefs and intentions for the distribution of their personal property and assets after they pass away. By creating a legacy book, clients can provide context and meaning to the appraiser and their heirs about the sentimental and personal value of their possessions. The legacy book can be used as an amendable addendum to the client’s will.

How to Create

The act of creating a legacy book is significant in and of itself and can be a meaningful one. It can help your clients take stock of their lives, reflect on what they’ve accomplished and...

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About the Authors

Alan Breus

Alan’s background includes a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from The New School, New York City, studies in Appraisal and Analysis at New York University and advanced studies in Life Underwriting and Estate and Financial Planning. Alan’s membership in the Appraiser’s Association of America requires he sustain an expertise in: Legal and Ethical Aspects of Appraising, IRS Legal Guidelines in Valuation, Research methodology in Appraisal and complete familiarity with The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). His professional experience includes the appraisal of, documentary film, rare books and documents,  fine art, life insurance policies and collectibles for universities, hospitals, various non-profits  and estate planning and private accounting professionals. Alan is a sought after speaker and has been a sponsor at many national and regional planned giving conferences.

Alan’s speaking engagements include: The upcoming 2012  Partnership for Philanthropic Planning, The Chesapeake Bay Planned Giving Council, The Greater Bay Area Planned Giving Council, The San Joaquin Planned Giving Council, The Valley Public TV Estate Planning Forum, The Northwestern University Planned Giving Seminar, April, 2010, DePaul University Planned Giving Seminar, April, 2010, Greater Bay Area Conference on Planned Giving,  Greater San Diego Planned Giving Seminar, Partnership for Philanthropic Planning 2011 National Conference,  Chicago Council on Planned Giving, 2011 Masters Seminar

Alan’s sponsorships include: 2008 National Conference on Planned Giving, and 2009 National Conference on Planned Givingand the 2010National Conference on Planned Giving, and the 2012National Conference on Planned Giving, The Bay Area Jewish Community Endowment Fund's 13th Annual Tax and Estate Planning Seminar.

Alan has served on:

Board of Advisors, Business Division, Jewish National Fund, New York City, Board of Advisors – Hillel of Silicon Valley, Board of Advisors, Red Cross, Southwest Area Division

Jacob Stiglitz

Appraiser, Goldfinch Appraisals, LLC

Jacob Stiglitz is an appraiser at Goldfinch Appraisals, LLC in Washington, D.C.