Divorce
appraisals.

Two ways it usually goes

The house is sold and the proceeds divided. An appraisal sets a realistic listing price, which limits time on the market and protects the sale price for both parties.

One spouse keeps the house and buys the other out. Here the number is the settlement. A judge will not rule on the division of property without a valuation from a certified real estate appraiser.

Either way, the appraisal is not a formality. It is the figure both attorneys, and often the court, will work from.

Current value, or value as of a date in the past

Divorce work frequently calls for a retrospective appraisal — the value of the property as of a specific past date rather than today. Depending on the case, that date might be the date of separation, the date of filing, the date of marriage, or the date of purchase. Some cases require both a current and a retrospective value.

Retrospective work is its own discipline. It means reconstructing the market as it stood on that date, using only the sales that were relevant then, and documenting the reasoning well enough that it survives review years later.

Built to withstand the other side

In a contested divorce, an appraisal is evidence, and evidence gets attacked. Opposing counsel will look for the adjustment that was not explained, the comparable that does not belong, the conclusion that is asserted instead of supported.

Every report is written with that in mind. Values and adjustments are explained and supported on the page, not left for the appraiser to defend from memory. If the case goes to court, the appraiser may be called to testify to the work.

What to expect

Reach out with the property address or parcel number and anything relevant about the case, including the effective date you need. You will get a straight answer on scope and fee before any work begins. Corey responds to every inquiry personally, usually the same business day.

Divorce is difficult enough. The appraisal should be the part that is handled.