1
The effective date
Current value and retrospective value answer different questions. Identify the legally relevant valuation date before the assignment begins.
Divorce & Family Law Appraisals
Independent residential valuations when property value matters.
Clear, impartial, well-supported appraisal services for Arizona family law attorneys, mediators, and divorcing property owners.
Nearly 30 YearsArizona valuation experience
IndependentNeutral, objective analysis
LocalMaricopa, Pinal & Gila Counties
ExperiencedComplex and retrospective work
A valuation resource for counsel
Residential appraisal support for family law matters
When the marital residence or another residential property is a significant asset, the assignment may require more than a current estimate. Cornerstone Appraisal develops a property-specific opinion of value supported by relevant market evidence and clearly explained reasoning.
Property Division
Current fair market value for settlement discussions, mediation, or equitable distribution.
Buyout Decisions
Independent support when one spouse may retain the property and buy out the other party’s interest.
Retrospective Value
Historical valuation for a date of marriage, separation, filing, or another legally relevant date.
Complex Properties
Analysis of custom homes, acreage, guest houses, solar, green features, renovations, and atypical improvements.
Mediation Support
A neutral valuation reference that can help narrow disagreements and support informed negotiation.
Litigation-Related Work
Carefully documented appraisal analysis designed to be understandable and withstand professional scrutiny.
Why Cornerstone
Experience, neutrality, and clear communication
I understand that family law assignments can be sensitive, time-dependent, and closely examined. My role is not to advocate for either party. It is to develop and communicate a credible opinion of value.
Eric Ranta has provided residential appraisal services in Arizona since 1998 and serves Maricopa and Pinal Counties, plus Globe–Miami and surrounding Gila County communities.
Free attorney resource
5 residential valuation issues that can complicate an Arizona divorce
A practical checklist for spotting appraisal questions early in a matter.
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Property condition over time
Renovations, damage, deferred maintenance, or occupancy changes can complicate a historical valuation. Contemporaneous photos and records may be important.
3
Solar and green features
Owned versus leased solar, energy improvements, and certifications require property-specific market analysis rather than automatic dollar adjustments.
4
Atypical improvements
Guest houses, workshops, extensive remodeling, acreage, views, and unusual design can narrow the pool of meaningful comparable sales.
5
One appraiser or two
A jointly selected neutral appraiser may reduce competing opinions, while separate appraisers may be appropriate when each side requires independent advice. Counsel should define the intended use and users.
Helpful information to provide
Property address, required effective date, relevant deadline, intended use and users, access contact, prior appraisals, renovation history, and any known disputed property characteristics.
General information only; not legal or tax advice. Assignment scope should be determined for the facts and intended use of each matter.
Frequently asked questions
Family law appraisal questions
Can an appraisal be completed as of an earlier date?
Yes. A retrospective appraisal can develop an opinion of value as of a prior effective date using historical market data and information about the property as it existed at that time.
Do both parties need to agree on the appraiser?
That is a legal and strategic decision for the parties and counsel. When jointly engaged, the appraiser’s role remains independent and impartial; assignment terms should clearly identify the client, intended users, intended use, and effective date.
Is an interior inspection always required?
Not in every assignment. The appropriate scope depends on the effective date, intended use, available information, property complexity, and assignment conditions. Any limitations are disclosed in the report.
What should an attorney send with the initial inquiry?
The property address, needed effective date, purpose of the valuation, relevant deadline, access information, and any known unusual features or changes to the property are the most useful starting points.
Have a residential valuation question?
Send the property address, needed effective date, intended use, and deadline. I’ll review the assignment and respond directly.