Divorce & Estate Appraisals
Epic Appraisal provides independent residential valuations for divorce, separation, mediation, property division, settlement discussions, and related litigation throughout Western Washington.
Why an independent appraisal can matter in divorce
Real estate is often one of the largest assets involved in a separation. An appraisal provides a property-specific opinion of value for a defined effective date and intended use, creating a neutral reference point when the parties, attorneys, or mediators need more than an online estimate or listing opinion.
Current value vs. historical value
Some divorce matters need the home’s current market value. Others may require a retrospective value as of a date of separation, filing date, acquisition date, or another date identified by counsel. A historical effective date changes the assignment because the appraiser must analyze the property and market as they existed at that time.
Related guide: Retrospective Appraisal vs. Current Appraisal.
Common situations we see
One Party Keeps the Home
An appraisal can help establish a neutral value when one spouse plans to retain the property and the parties need a reference point for a buyout or settlement.
Property Will Be Sold
A current appraisal may help the parties understand value before deciding on a listing strategy, accepting an off-market offer, or negotiating a settlement.
Litigation or Testimony
When the valuation becomes contested, the appraisal may be reviewed in mediation, deposition, arbitration, or court, subject to the assignment and scope of work.
What the appraiser needs from the parties
- Property address and contact person for access.
- The required effective date.
- The intended use of the appraisal and the client ordering the report.
- Information about major improvements, additions, damage, or repairs.
- Any known deadline, mediation date, deposition, or hearing date.
If the home has changed significantly since a historical effective date, photographs, invoices, permits, prior listings, inspection reports, or other records may help document its earlier condition.
Can both parties provide information?
Relevant information can be considered, but the appraiser must remain independent and determine what is appropriate for the assignment. The appraisal is not an advocacy document for either side.
Is an appraisal the same as a home inspection?
No. The appraiser observes characteristics that are relevant to value and the appraisal assignment, but the appraisal is not a technical home inspection and is not intended to identify every defect or building-system issue.
Testimony and litigation fees
When testimony, deposition, hearing preparation, or litigation support is required, Epic Appraisal charges $300 per hour with a three-hour minimum. The three-hour minimum must be paid before the hearing date. Additional time or amounts due are invoiced after completion. See our Services & Fees page for current terms.
Request a divorce appraisal
Send us the property address, required effective date, intended use, and any important deadlines so we can confirm the appropriate assignment and provide a quote.
Back-to-back Best of South Sound winner.
Epic Appraisal was voted Best of South Sound in 2025 and 2026—a recognition we’re proud to pair with responsive communication, local market knowledge, and professional residential appraisal service.