The first step is a visit to the client's residence or business site. Discussion focuses on utilizing spaces and resources effectively and determining the client's preferences within a range of styles and medias.

The next step is to research and locate works of art that fit within the client's criteria and will likely interest the client. If the client prefers, this is followed by seeing particular artworks on site (e.g., gallery and artist studio visits). Or, if the client chooses, images of selected artwork can be brought to the client at his or her residence or business (via print outs or the Internet). Artwork from afar can be shipped to the client for review on a loan basis. Often a combination of these viewing methods is appropriate.

An art seller can be an artist, a gallery owner, or a private dealer. Sightline looks to only reputable sellers for artwork. It works with each seller to ensure that the client has all of the information he or she needs to make an educated decision. Sightline does not confer with sellers about setting the prices of artworks. That issue is left solely to the seller and is established before Sightline approaches the seller about possible artwork for the client. When the client buys an artwork, Sightline typically receives a small commission (based on the sale price of the artwork) from the seller. This is a standard compensation arrangement in the art consulting field. It does not impact the price that the client pays for the art.

Sightline wants every client to be confident and excited about his or her decision to purchase a particular work of art. There is no pressure to buy artwork or to do so within a particular time frame. If and when the client decides to buy an artwork, then Sightline assists the client with the purchase transaction as well as the framing, placement and installation of the artwork, as necessary.

Sightline typically charges an hourly or project-based consultation rate. The amount of time Sightline devotes to each client's art needs is up to the client. Sightline prides itself on making the most efficient and effective use of consulting time. The goal is to help the client collect art, not to discourage him or her from doing so with unreasonable fees.