Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracy Jarvinen.
Hi Tracy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My passion for antiques began in childhood, sparked by something as simple as a banana box from the local grocery store. That box became my treasure chest—a place to store the special items I collected and cherished. Antiques were a natural part of my upbringing. My grandparents and uncles were lifelong antique dealers, moving between the Twin Cities and Denver throughout my childhood. From them, I developed a deep appreciation for history, craftsmanship, and the stories behind each piece.
My father also shares this passion, particularly for old wood restoration and mantel clocks. After retiring from his business in Arizona, he pursued his interest full-time and became a professional appraiser. His dedication further inspired my own path in the industry.
In 2002, I met my husband, Joe, and one of the strongest foundations of our relationship was our shared love of antiques. Like many collectors, we eventually found ourselves acquiring more than we were selling. During this time, we visited an indoor flea market that was noticeably underperforming—so quiet you could have thrown a bowling ball across the room without hitting anyone. Where others may have seen failure, we saw opportunity.
From that experience, The Anoka Fling Flea Market was born. What began as a vision grew into a thriving winter market and a vibrant community gathering place for collectors and dealers alike.
As my career evolved, in 2010, I earned my certification from the Certified Appraisers Guild of America, further solidifying my professional commitment to the field and I opened MN Certified Appraisal Group, LLC. Now, more than fifteen years later, I continue to embrace my work as an appraiser with the same enthusiasm that began with that simple banana box of treasures.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Along the path to becoming a professional appraiser, I faced several meaningful challenges. These included building a broader and more consistent client base, increasing recognition and credibility for my business MN Certified Appraisal Group, strengthening my online presence with a professional and effective website, and ultimately positioning myself to transition into full-time appraisal work. Each of these steps has required strategic planning, persistence, and a strong commitment to long-term growth.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
MN Certified Appraisal Group is certified through and maintains active membership with the Certified Appraisers Guild of America. We provide USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice)–compliant appraisal services for antiques, collectibles, vintage furniture, artwork, estates, and charitable donations. In addition, we offer professional guidance should you choose to sell your assets.
Our appraisal team brings more than 50 years of combined experience in the valuation of antiques and collectibles and fine art We specialize in personal property and estate appraisals, as well as consulting services tailored to meet a wide range of client needs.
We provide appraisal services for insurance coverage, estate settlements, banks and private trusts, probate proceedings, equitable distribution among heirs, and charitable donation documentation. Our expertise includes the appraisal of estates, fine art, antiques, furniture, and a broad spectrum of collectible categories.
What sets us apart is our client-centered approach. We travel to you for on-site evaluations, provide detailed photographic documentation of every item appraised, and take the time to understand your specific objectives so we can tailor our services accordingly.
To ensure the highest ethical standards, we do not buy or sell the items we appraise, as we believe doing so presents a conflict of interest. However, we are happy to guide clients toward the most appropriate and reputable sales channels, including nationally recognized auction houses and respected art galleries, and assist throughout that process.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
It is not an easy road but nothing worthwhile ever is!
Pricing:
- We have an hourly fee. Please contact us for more information
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mncertifiedappraisalgroup.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mnappraiseit
