Published January 15, 2026 · Updated September 15, 2026 · Eagle Home Appraisal Delco
How Does Appraisal Work In Divorce?
An appraisal in divorce is a professional opinion of an asset’s value, often the home, that can inform discussions about a buyout, sale or property division.
What gets appraised
Divorce appraisals commonly cover real estate (marital home and other property), because you typically need a fair market value before deciding whether one spouse will keep the home (buyout) or the home will be sold. Other items can also be appraised, including valuable personal property (for example jewelry, artwork, collectibles) and business interests where valuation is not obvious from a bank statement.
| Asset type | Typical professional | What the valuation relies on |
|---|---|---|
| Home / real estate | Licensed real estate appraiser | Inspection plus comparable recent sales (“comps”) and a written appraisal report |
| Business ownership | Business valuation expert / forensic accountant | Asset-, income-, and/or market-based valuation methods depending on the company and records |
| Jewelry / art / collectibles | Specialized personal property appraiser (e.g., art appraiser, jewelry appraiser) | Market evidence (recent sales history, market prices, authenticity/condition) |
How a home appraisal happens
The spouses or their lawyers arrange the appraisal under the applicable instructions. For an on-site assignment, the appraiser measures, photographs and assesses condition and features, then analyzes local comparable sales and produces a written report.
Which “date” matters
Confirm the required valuation date with your attorney rather than assuming it is the inspection date. A past effective date can require records showing the property and market at that earlier time.
If you disagree with the appraisal
If a property fact appears incorrect, provide specific supporting information. Ask your attorney how any disagreement between appraisals should be addressed. Confirm fees, payment and any requested testimony or additional support before engagement.
Related video
Originally published with this article. Historical prices and business details in the video may differ from current information.
Watch on YouTube