I received a call from a woman from Bedford NH today. She and her husband are going through a divorce and she inquired about an appraisal. The interesting part of this is that she ask if I could do a “neutral” appraisal for both the husband and wife.
I explained that I absolutely could do an appraisal on their Bedford home and that I would name both of them as clients. I also let her know that I do a lot of appraisal assignments like this and congratulated on working together. While do I provide expert witness services throughout New Hampshire, I always tell my divorce appraisal clients that it is always best if they can agree on a value themselves.
I do have a few guidelines and rules when conducting this type of an appraisal. They are:
Divorce is one of the most stressful times in one’s life. We can’t fix the marriage, but we can offer professional, reliable and respectful assistance in valuing your real estate.
DIVORCE…..We all know someone who is going through a divorce. It may even be yourself. I am not going to give you general divorce advice, but I am going to offer you divorce real estate advice….
Divorce is a terrible thing. It is a polarizing event in which every body takes sides. Everything “he” does is good…Everything “she” does is bad and vice versa. While I don’t think divorce should be war, it is important that you take the financial part of it seriously and thoroughly. Too often one side gives in too easy because they “just want it over” giving away thousands of dollars in the settlement. Don’t be bullied!
THE HOUSE…. Even if you are in agreement WHO gets the house, you may not be able to agree on how much its worth. How much it’s worth effects the equity and is the basis for one side buying out the other. I have a few important thoughts regarding the appraisal of the house. In no particular order they are:
If you have any questions regarding a divorce or any other appraisal, don’t hesitate to contact me at (603) 644-1000 or at appraisals@jacklavoie.com