Marriage Dissolution (Divorce) Appraisals

Regardless of whether the dissolution of a marriage occurs through amicable settlement, third-party mediation or divorce court proceedings, the appraisal of the couple's property is one of the most important factors in establishing the division of assets and terms of settlement. The appraisal of real estate for the purpose of marriage dissolution must be timely, accurate, and un-biased. Golden State Appraisals, Inc sets the bar in professional real estate appraisal services, with the goal of providing outstanding service at an affordable price.

We specialize in the equitable dissolution of marital assets and can help you get through this difficult process in the most efficient manner possible.

Out of all of the decisions that a couple must make when finalizing their divorce, what to do with the house is often one of the biggest. There are ultimately two possible decisions; the house can be sold and the proceeds of the property can be split between two parties, or one party can buy the other out and retain possession of the house.

 

Regardless of whether one spouse decides to keep the house or not, an appraisal must be performed. Divorce appraisals (or dissolution of marriage appraisals) state the fair market value of the house and are defensible in court. Our professionals can perform this valuation so that it will meet the requirements of the courts and various other agencies.

Talk to our Experts!

What's the whole process?

How it Works

Step 1: Research

 

Once an appraisal has been ordered, our staff will begin to research recorded information regarding the subject property. Golden State Appraisals, Inc. maintains access to numerous specialized data bases in order to obtain property information and data. Potential comparable properties are identified for further investigation. The research process is on-going and continues throughout the entire appraisal process up until the time the assignment is complete.

Step 2: Inspection

 

A physical inspection of the property is scheduled at the time of order. Golden State Appraisals, Inc. offers appointments 7 days a week, for your convenience in scheduling. Our office staff will be happy work with you to ensure you secure an appointment that works best for the scheduling concerns of all parties involved.

 

The physical inspection generally takes anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and condition of the property being inspected. Usually a full inspection is requested for the purposes of marriage dissolution settlements. This type of appraisal required the appraiser to take measurements, a view, photograph and document all components of the property, both exterior and interior. We also offer exterior-only or "drive-by" appraisals, for those assignments that do not require the full inspection.

Step 3: Reporting

 

The appraiser's findings and photographs are input into an appraisal report, specifically designed and formatted for the type of assignment completed. A detailed market analysis is conducted, and important documentation such as location mapping, plat maps, and appraiser sketches are added into the report, with the aid of cutting edge software. The report is delivered electronically to our client, via emailed PDF, upon completion. A hard copy may be requested at no additional charge. Typically, a report is completed 24-72 hours after the inspection.

Step 4: Testimony

 

Sometimes, when a divorce is being settled in court, expert testimony may be requested from the appraiser to explain his/her opinion of value determined by the appraisal report. All Golden State Appraisal, Inc. appraisers are experienced and comfortable in a courtroom setting, and are able to present their findings in a professional and clear manner. We conduct ALL marriage dissolution appraisals as if they were going to be presented in court, so that you are guaranteed of a professional, legally-defendable opinion of value. Our office is aware of the unique time constraints and requirements for divorce court appraisals and will work with you and your attorney to ensure subpoenas are received by the appraiser and disclosures are signed in a timely manner. Expert witness testimony is based on an hourly fee rate, available upon request and as needed.