In a divorce, the family home is often the largest asset. The value can change a lot depending on which date it is measured from, especially in a moving market. Getting the date right before the appraisal is ordered saves time and money. Here is what to know, with general background on Florida and Connecticut. Your attorney decides what your case needs.
Key Takeaways
- The effective date of the appraisal can matter as much as the value itself.
- Common dates include the date of separation, the filing date, and a current date close to trial or settlement.
- Florida law lets the judge choose valuation dates that are just and equitable for the case.
- Appraisers can provide a current value, a retrospective value, or both.
- Tell the appraiser the date and intended use before the inspection.
Why the Date Matters
If a home was worth one amount when the couple separated and a different amount a year later, the choice of date can shift the settlement. Market changes, improvements made by one spouse, or damage and deferred maintenance after separation can all affect the number. That is why attorneys often ask for values as of more than one date.
Florida: General Background
Florida’s equitable distribution statute generally uses the earlier of a valid separation agreement or the filing of the petition as the cut-off for identifying marital assets. For valuing them, the statute lets the judge choose the date or dates that are just and equitable under the circumstances. In practice, attorneys may request a current value, a value as of filing, or both. Your attorney will tell you which applies.
Connecticut: General Background
Connecticut divides property under its own equitable distribution rules, and valuation is often tied to a date at or near the time of the dissolution. Because cases can take time, a value ordered early may need to be updated before trial or settlement. Again, your attorney sets the date.
| Effective date | When it is used | Appraisal type |
|---|---|---|
| Current date | Settlement talks, buyouts, recent filings | Current market value |
| Date of filing | When the case calls for the filing date | Retrospective |
| Date of separation | When attorneys or the parties agree on it | Retrospective |
| Two dates | To show change over time | Current and retrospective in one assignment |
How a Retrospective Appraisal Works
For a past date, the appraiser uses sales from around that date and describes the home as it was then, as best records allow. Photos, receipts, and permits help show when updates were made. If one spouse renovated after separation, the appraiser can note the condition as of each date.
Practical Tips
- Confirm the effective date or dates with your attorney before ordering.
- Agree on access for the inspection, especially if only one spouse lives in the home.
- Gather records of updates and repairs with dates.
- Consider whether a neutral appraiser both sides accept would save time.
- Ask for an update if the case runs long and the market has moved.
See divorce appraisals and appraisals for equitable division.
How Heritage Valuation Group Can Help
We provide neutral residential appraisals for divorce across Florida and Connecticut. Catherine Hall has appraised homes since 1993 and comes from a three-generation appraisal family. She is based in Palmetto and works throughout Florida, and her daughter, Madeline Hall, appraises alongside her in both states. We focus only on residential property and work directly with each client.
Related: tax and divorce valuation and second opinions. See our Florida and Connecticut service overviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides the valuation date in a divorce?
Your attorney and, ultimately, the court. Confirm the date with your attorney before ordering an appraisal.
Can one appraisal include two dates?
Yes. An appraiser can provide a current value and a retrospective value in the same assignment.
What if one spouse made improvements after separation?
Tell the appraiser. With records and dates, the appraiser can describe the home’s condition as of each effective date.
Should we each get our own appraisal?
Some couples use one neutral appraiser to save cost, while others each hire their own. Your attorneys can advise.
What if the case takes a long time?
If the market has moved, an updated appraisal may be needed closer to settlement or trial.
How do I get started?
Call 888-602-8322 or use the request form. Tell us the address, property type, and purpose, and we will send a clear quote before any work begins.
Conclusion
In a divorce, the right date is as important as the right value. Confirm the date with your attorney, then order an appraisal that fits it. Heritage Valuation Group provides neutral residential appraisals in Florida and Connecticut. This article is general information, not legal advice.
Need a divorce appraisal? Request a quote or call 888-602-8322. You will get a clear price before any work starts.
