Why an Accurate Appraisal Matters in a Divorce
When you're dividing property in a divorce, the home is usually the biggest asset on the table. An inaccurate valuation — or skipping the appraisal entirely — can cost you thousands and fuel unnecessary conflict between parties, attorneys, and courts.
A professional appraisal gives both parties an impartial, defensible number to work from. It takes the guesswork and emotion out of the equation so you can focus on reaching a fair settlement — not arguing about what the house is worth.
A court-ready divorce appraisal helps you:
Avoid unnecessary disputes — An independent third-party valuation removes opinion from the process.
Ensure a fair property division — Both parties can rely on the same credible number.
Move forward with confidence — A defensible report stands up in mediation or court.
What the Process Looks Like
We keep it straightforward. Here's what happens from the moment you reach out:
Step 1 — Free consultation. You call or schedule online. We discuss your situation, answer your questions, and give you an exact fee quote. No pressure, no obligation.
Step 2 — On-site inspection. We schedule the visit at a time that works for you and whoever else occupies the property. The inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. We measure the home, document its condition, and note any features or updates relevant to value.
Step 3 — Report delivery. You receive a thorough, court-ready appraisal report — typically within a few business days of the inspection. The report is clear, well-documented, and written in plain language that both parties and their attorneys can understand and rely on.
Step 4 — Support if needed. If your attorney or mediator has follow-up questions, we're available. We stand behind our work.
What's Included in the Report
Every divorce appraisal report includes a full analysis of your property's market value based on recent comparable sales, an interior and exterior inspection, and a detailed written explanation of how we arrived at the value. The report meets USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) standards — the same standards required for court proceedings and legal settlements in Minnesota.
Ben Goheen, Minnesota Certified Residential Appraiser (License #20303548), personally conducts and signs every appraisal. You're not handed off to a trainee or a third party.
Serving Divorce Clients Across the Twin Cities
We serve homeowners across the seven-county metro area, including Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, Washington, Scott, and Carver counties. Whether your home is in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, Woodbury, Eagan, Burnsville, Maple Grove, or anywhere in between, we know the local market and can deliver a defensible valuation that reflects current conditions in your specific neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does both parties' attorney need to agree on the appraiser? Not necessarily. One party can order a single appraisal that both sides use, or each side can order their own. A single shared appraisal is often the most cost-effective path and reduces the chance of conflicting values becoming a point of dispute.
What if the other party disputes the value? Our reports are detailed and fully documented, making them defensible in mediation or court. If needed, Ben is available to provide testimony or answer written questions from attorneys.
How soon can you schedule? Typically within a few business days. Turnaround on the report is usually 3 to 5 business days after the inspection. Call 651-505-4400 or schedule online for an exact timeline.
How do I find a divorce appraiser near me in the Twin Cities? If you're searching for a divorce appraiser near me in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the surrounding suburbs, Metrowide Appraisals serves the full seven-county metro area. Call 651-505-4400 or schedule online — we typically have availability within a few business days.
