Who pays for a divorce appraisal?

Costs are commonly split between the parties when the appraiser is jointly retained, or paid by the retaining party when each side orders its own. The fee arrangement does not affect the value conclusion.

Can one appraiser work for both spouses?

Yes. A jointly retained appraiser is the most efficient path and is common in mediation. The engagement letter names both parties and their counsel as intended users.

Will the appraiser testify in court?

Yes. Deposition and courtroom testimony are available, supported by a workfile documenting every data source and adjustment in the report.

Service

Divorce and Mediation Appraisals

A divorce appraisal provides a neutral opinion of the marital home's market value for equitable distribution. Florida courts and mediators rely on an independent certified appraiser rather than agent estimates, and the report can be prepared as of the filing date or another date the parties agree on.

In dissolution work the appraiser serves the assignment, not a side. That neutrality is the point: both parties, both attorneys, and the mediator can work from the same defensible number.

Typical fee: $550–$1,100; testimony billed separately
Turnaround: 3–5 business days
Report form: Narrative or URAR with litigation-ready exhibits

What is included in this appraisal

Independent value with no contact bias toward either party
Current or retrospective effective date as directed by counsel
Detailed adjustment grid that withstands cross-examination
Availability for mediation, deposition, and courtroom testimony

Who needs it

Spouses negotiating a buyout of the marital residence
Family law attorneys preparing for mediation or trial
Mediators who need a single credible value
Parties dividing multiple properties or investment holdings

Choosing the effective date

Florida equitable distribution often uses the date of filing, but parties can stipulate to another date. Where values moved sharply between dates, a report can address more than one effective date so the court sees the difference explicitly.

Buyouts and refinance planning

When one spouse keeps the home, the appraised value sets the equity split and frames what a refinance will support. A clear report shortens negotiation and reduces the chance of a second appraisal being ordered.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays for a divorce appraisal?: Costs are commonly split between the parties when the appraiser is jointly retained, or paid by the retaining party when each side orders its own. The fee arrangement does not affect the value conclusion.
Can one appraiser work for both spouses?: Yes. A jointly retained appraiser is the most efficient path and is common in mediation. The engagement letter names both parties and their counsel as intended users.
Will the appraiser testify in court?: Yes. Deposition and courtroom testimony are available, supported by a workfile documenting every data source and adjustment in the report.

Divorce and Mediation Appraisals

What is included in this appraisal

Who needs it

Choosing the effective date

Buyouts and refinance planning

Frequently asked questions

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Where this service is available

Order a divorce & mediation appraisal