Divorce Appraisals

Legal matters that call into question the value of real estate will almost certainly require a determination of fair market value by a qualified real estate appraiser. One such situation that is all too common is a divorce. A real estate appraisal for a divorce requires a certain level or professionalism, an unwavering resolve for fairness and a touch of humanity. With the house often being the largest asset that will need to be dealt with during the separation, both parties have their own agendas as to where they would like the value to come in at. It is our jobs as appraisers to deal with these pressures and assure that they do not unduly influence the outcome of the appraisal. At the same time we must be understanding and sensitive of the situation from both party’s perspective. Because of these unique challenges involved with appraisals for divorce proceedings, you need an Austin real estate appraiser that is experienced in this area

Our appraisers have the experienced required to complete divorce appraisal assignments with the utmost level of professionalism. Regardless of whether the appraisal is ordered by an attorney, an individual involved or an accountant, the assignment will be performed with the same unbiased view of the property and the situation, guaranteeing a fair valuation for all parties involved.

Probate / Estate Appraisals

Settling an estate is an important and sometimes stressful job. As an executor you have been entrusted to carry out the wishes of the deceased as swiftly and exactly as possible. An estate appraisal is required to establish Fair Market Value for the property involved. Often, the date of death differs from the date the appraisal is requested. We are familiar with the procedures and requirements necessary to perform a retrospective appraisal with an effective date and Fair Market Value estimate matching the date of death.

Current and Retrospective Market Value

Often times during a divorce, bankruptcy, estate or probate case the fair market value of a property needs to be determined to a previous date. These are known as “retrospective” appraisals and fairly common in legal appraisals. With a retrospective appraisal we simply analyze the market as it was at a specific time in the past with no regard for current or future knowledge of the market. For example, we may value a home at $500,000 and declare that the market values are increasing as of “X” date. The very next day a fire could burn down half the neighborhood and values could rapidly decline. A retrospective appraisal to “X” date would assume ignorance of the events that took place on the next day and the appraisal would still assume market values are increasing.