About Us
We Are Driven By Values
Meet Our Expert: Keith A. Smith, IACP Certified Auto Appraiser and Louisiana Licensed Adjuster
Founder, Diminished Value Method, LLC
Keith began his career as a real estate appraiser, passing the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers Exam in 1987. He transitioned into insurance in 1992, gaining extensive experience in auto appraisals, claims adjusting, and litigation strategy.
He founded Diminished Value Method, LLC in 2010, the same year Louisiana R.S. §9:2800.17 was enacted, recognizing the need for fair and accurate diminished value assessments in Louisiana.
Keith’s extensive background in auto claims adjusting and litigation strategy has allowed him to develop a strong reputation in the field. He holds a B.A. in Insurance and Real Estate from Morehouse College and earned his IACP Certified Automobile Appraiser Accreditation from the Bureau of Certified Auto Appraisers.
Since its inception, Diminished Value Method, LLC has been committed to delivering detailed, court-admissible appraisal reports that meet the highest industry standards. Focusing initially on the Louisiana market, the company expanded its services to Mississippi and Alabama in 2021 to meet growing demand for quality DV assessments in these regions.
Keith’s knowledge of Louisiana’s legal framework and his hands-on experience with thousands of appraisals have made him a trusted resource for auto owners, legal professionals, and insurance companies throughout the Gulf South. His unwavering commitment to accuracy, integrity, and client satisfaction ensures that Diminished Value Method, LLC continues to be a leader in the field.
Personal Bio: From Asphalt to Auctions – The Early Years of Keith A. Smith
Keith’s journey into the world of vehicle valuation began much earlier than his professional career. Growing up in Los Angeles, Keith’s passion for cars was sparked by his father, a race car driver turned car flipper. By age 13, Keith was spending weekends at auto auctions, confidently assessing the value of any car that rolled onto the block. His natural talent for vehicle valuation was evident, helping his father flip rare and impressive automobiles. Here’s a list of cars they collected and flipped.
Despite his mother’s hopes to keep him off the racetrack, Keith became a competitive street racer during his late high school and early college years. This rebellious spirit was tempered by his innate ability to understand the intricacies of vehicle performance and market value, laying the foundation for his lifelong career in the automotive industry.
Today, Keith’s passion for cars and deep understanding of vehicle worth, honed from those early days at auction houses and on the streets of Los Angeles, inform every appraisal he delivers. His unique blend of practical experience and professional training makes him a leader in the field of diminished value appraisals.