Why before, not after
A settlement figure with no documented value behind it is harder for both sides to trust, and a value that only one side requested may not be accepted by the other. An appraisal ordered before negotiation gives both sides the same written evidence to discuss at the start, though they may still disagree about the value. It states the value, the valuation date and the comparable sales, so the talk is about evidence and not opinion.
What the report includes
The report names the property, the valuation date, the purpose and the intended users. It shows the comparable sales and the adjustments between them, and it states the limiting conditions that the conclusion depends on. Spouses and counsel can read it page by page.
The date
The Family Code provides that the court values assets and liabilities as near as practicable to the time of trial, and that on 30 days' notice and good cause it may value them at a date after separation and before trial. The valuation date is therefore a decision, and a settlement discussion goes better when everyone knows which date the report uses.
The order of events
First negotiation: the spouses or counsel decide to get a value.
Ordering: they agree the valuation date, the users and the recipients.
Visit: the appraiser inspects the home and analyzes comparable sales, following the five steps on Randy M. Sonns's residential appraisal page.
Report: it is delivered electronically to the agreed recipients.
Settlement discussion: the value informs the negotiation.
No duration is promised for any step, because timing depends on the property and the schedule.
What to remember
An appraisal is evidence and not a decision. It does not say who keeps the home or how a court will rule. For the service, see divorce appraisal in Los Angeles. For related reading, see why hire a divorce appraiser, how appraisals support divorce mediation and how attorneys use divorce appraisals.
Frequently asked questions
Can we get an appraisal after we settle?
You can order one at any time, but its date and purpose should match what you need it for. Ask your attorney what, if anything, a later report would change, and tell Randy the valuation date and the reason for the request.
What if we disagree with the appraisal?
Read the comparable sales together and ask the appraiser to explain. A factual error can be corrected.
Who orders it?
A spouse or an attorney, often jointly.
What date should we choose?
The date you agree with counsel, which the Family Code lets be as near as practicable to trial or, on notice and good cause, a date after separation.