Home / Divorce
For family law attorneys and both spouses
Divorce appraisals, dated to the day that actually counts.
The marital home is often the largest asset on the table. An independent appraisal, written so it can stand up if it has to, takes one argument off the list.
Florida does not fix one valuation date
Under Florida's equitable distribution statute, section 61.075, the date used to value marital assets is whatever date the judge decides is just and equitable in the circumstances. Depending on the case that can be the date of filing, the date of separation, or a date close to trial. In a market that has moved the way Central Florida's has, those dates can produce very different numbers.
So the attorney names the date, in writing, before the work starts. If nobody has named one yet, that is the first call to make. I can prepare values as of more than one date if the attorneys want to see the difference.
One report instead of two
Either attorney can engage me, and both parties can be named as intended users. A single independent report usually costs less, and argues less, than two competing appraisals ordered by each side. If each side does want its own, that is fine too. Mine will be written the same way either way.
Written to hold up
Every adjustment is shown and explained, so a reader can follow how the value was reached. If the case needs it, I can discuss the report with counsel. Ask about testimony when you order, because it is scoped and quoted separately.
What to have ready: the property address, the effective date (or dates) in writing from counsel, the names of the intended users, and who will provide access to the house.
Common questions
One spouse still lives in the house. Is that a problem?
No, as long as access can be arranged. I inspect the home the same way regardless of who lives there and stick to the property.
Can you value the house as of a past date?
Yes. Retrospective appraisals are routine, and divorce work often needs one. The comparable sales from around that date are still on record.
Is this the same as the appraisal for a refinance or buyout loan?
Not usually. A lender orders its own appraisal for a loan. The divorce report is written for the court case and its intended users. If both are needed, say so up front.
Order or ask
Tell me the address and why you need it.
That is genuinely all it takes to get a quote and a date. If you are an attorney or a CPA ordering for a client, put your own details in and the owner's in the notes.
- Call or text(407) 588-7197
- Emailalgiammattei@gmail.com
- HoursMon to Fri, 9 to 5. Weekends by appointment.