Divorce and date-of-separation appraisals in Los Angeles County
Dividing a Los Angeles County home in a divorce starts with a value both sides can accept. A desktop appraisal gives spouses, their attorneys, or a mediator a neutral, documented market value as of today, as of the date of separation, or both.
- Common dates
- Current value; date of separation; both when the parties disagree on which applies
- Typical users
- Spouses, family law attorneys, mediators
- Properties
- Single-family homes and condominiums
- Fees
- $299 Basic Desktop or $449 Standard Desktop
- Delivery
- 3+ business days
Current value or date of separation
California Family Code §2552 generally values community assets as near as practicable to the time of trial, but the court can use another date for good cause, and settlement talks frequently reference the date of separation. When the right date is unsettled, a report with both values lets everyone see the difference before negotiating.
Built for a buyout
When one spouse keeps the home, the buyout figure depends on the market value less what is owed against the property. A neutral appraisal removes the most argued-over number from the conversation.
Neutral by design
We do not advocate for either side. When both spouses agree to share one appraiser, the report can name both as intended users, which often saves the cost and delay of dueling valuations.
When a desktop report fits
Desktop appraisals work well for mediation, settlement negotiations, and agreed buyouts. If the value is likely to be litigated, or the home has significant condition issues, tell us before ordering so we can discuss whether an inspection-based assignment is a better choice.
Questions about divorce & date-of-separation appraisals
Can both spouses use the same appraisal?
Yes. A jointly ordered report can name both parties and their attorneys as intended users.
Do you need access to the house?
No. The analysis uses public records, sales data, and photos the parties provide. Either spouse can supply photos; it helps when both agree on them.
Can you value the home as of a past date of separation?
Yes. Retrospective values are routine in family law matters.
Looking for a specific city? Every LA County area page covers local valuation factors.
Reviewed November 2026. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Ready to request an appraisal?
Send the address and the date the value is needed for. We confirm the property and the fee within one business day; the report is delivered in 3+ business days.