Generally speaking, there are three major categories: 1. Intangible asset evaluation: such as trademarks, patents, mining rights, etc. 2. Real estate evaluation: residential, industrial land, commercial land, etc. 3. Machinery and equipment evaluation: various machines and equipment.

The actual work of an appraisal firm is often a combination of various appraisals. For example, assessing the value of a company may involve all of the above items.