Divorce Appraisals

Why should both parties order an appraisal of the residence? An accurate market value opinion is critical because the equity  in the house (equity = market value less secured debt) usually represents thousands of dollars of dividable assets.  Appraisals for divorce disposition require a well-supported, highest-quality, professional opinion of market value that is defensible in court.  The Ethical provisions within the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) bind us and ensure full discretion.

Why use Lagasse Appraisal?  First, we've earned the highest possible State License:  Certified General Appraiser.  While we limit our practice to residential assignments (including multi-family properties and small apartment buildings) this certification means we're qualified to appraise all real property.  Second, we know how to handle the sensitive needs of a divorce situation---when you order an appraisal from us, be assured that you will get unmatched discretion, courtesy, and professional service.  Third, we are expert at performing retroactive appraisals with an effective date and value that match the date of divorce, and/or any other date that is required.  For example, if one party owned the residence before the marriage, a retroactive appraisal helps by providing a 'baseline', and can assist in protecting equity assets brought into the marriage by this partner.