In a divorce, neither side can normally agree to anything especially the value of assets. Most couple's largest asset is there real estate holdings. The division of real estate comes in second or third behind the children and pets.

Typically in a divorce that includes real estate holdings. One will declare that the real estate is worth more and still going higher in value. While the other is saying it is only worth $1. The last thing you want to rely on is the option of an emotionally charged individual or someone who has something to gain with the value of the property. The job of coming up with a value on the real estate should fall to a professional real estate appraiser.

Unlike your attorney who is there to be your advocate, a real estate appraiser/valuator is there to be an unbiased professional to determine the value of the real property and nothing else.

In this delicate situation you need an appraiser that is experienced not only with real estate appraisal but litigation.

A professional real estate appraiser should be experienced in preparing reports for litigation. Phonebooks are filled with appraisers. However, litigation support is a highly specialized area with few participants. Less than 7% of real estate appraisers will agree to testify. Fewer than that will do it competently. Before you engage an appraiser, ask them if they are willing to testify. Unlike yourself, once an appraiser is deposed or under cross examination, the appraiser has no benefit of counsel. They must be able to explain, in easily understood terms how they arrived at the final value estimate.

Appraisers perform a range of functions from producing detailed written reports to consulting, and examination of testimony provided by other witnesses.

A competent real estate appraiser should be certified in the state that they practice, although it isn’t a requirement for litigation support in most jurisdictions. They should be a designated member of a nationally recognized appraisal organization, although once again, it is not mandatory. If the appraiser that you’re considering isn’t either; ask why not?

After all, knowledge is power. Only a professional can provide you what you need and deserve.