A divorce appraisal documents a real estate value opinion for a defined use and effective date. Ask the appraiser which documents are relevant to that assignment.
The following records may be useful; confirm the exact list before sending documents.
Core Ownership & Legal Documents
Deed to the property (most recent recorded deed) Shows legal ownership, how title is held, and any transfers during the marriage.Title report or title commitment (if available) Helpful to identify any liens, easements, or title issues.Purchase documents, such as the closing statement, original price and purchase date, help describe the property’s transaction history.Mortgage and Financing Records — Confirm Who Needs Them
Mortgage statements show debt balances; ask whether these belong with the attorney addressing equity rather than with the appraisal assignment.Any home equity line of credit (HELOC) or second mortgage statementsRefinance documents (if any occurred during ownership)Tax & Assessment Records
Latest property tax bill and/or property tax assessment notice Provides the assessor’s estimated value and helps with market context.Property tax history (last 2–3 years, if available)Improvement & Renovation Records
Useful improvement and renovation records include:
Receipts and invoices for major improvements, renovations, or repairsBefore-and-after photos of significant work (if available)Building permits (especially for additions, kitchens, bathrooms, roofing, etc.)Contracts with contractorsList of major upgrades with approximate dates and costs (e.g., new roof 2023, kitchen remodel 2021, HVAC replacement 2024)Other Helpful Documents
Homeowners insurance policy (declaration page) Shows insured replacement cost and can indicate major features.HOA documents (if applicable) HOA rules, fees, and any assessments Covenants, conditions & restrictions (CC&Rs)Floor plans or blueprints (especially for custom homes or large additions)Identify fixtures and movable items so the scope makes clear which property is included.Any previous appraisals or valuation reports (especially if done recently)Date of value requested by the attorney or court (sometimes a retrospective date is needed)Quick Reference Checklist
| Category | Records to discuss | Purpose |
|---|
| Property | Deed, survey, title information | Identify the property and available description |
| Purchase history | Closing statement and purchase date | Transaction history |
| Debt | Mortgage or HELOC statements | Confirm with the attorney handling equity questions |
| Taxes | Tax bill and assessment | Background records |
| Improvements | Receipts, permits and photographs | Describe work and timing |
| Association | HOA information and assessments | Relevant property context |
| Prior valuations | Prior reports | Historical background |
Important Notes
Not every document is needed for every assignment; confirm what is relevant.Documentation can help explain improvements and condition, including the property’s state at an earlier effective date.Use the communication and document-sharing process agreed with your attorney and appraiser.Always confirm the exact list with your specific appraiser — requirements can vary slightly depending on the state, the complexity of the case, and whether the report might be used in court.An attorney can help coordinate relevant records and clarify the intended use and effective date.