A Deep Dive into Real Estate Appraisals during Divorce with Kevin Kerns | Episode 181

Real Estate Appraisals in DivorceIn this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by certified real estate appraiser Kevin Kearns to discuss the role of real estate appraisals in Colorado divorce cases. Because the marital home is often one of the most valuable assets in a divorce, determining its fair market value can have a major impact on the financial outcome for both spouses.The episode also explores how appraisals work specifically in divorce litigation. Kevin discusses the difference between using a joint appraiser versus having each spouse hire their own expert, and why a well-supported appraisal can often reduce disputes and save both parties money. Ryan and Kevin also touch on more advanced issues, such as retrospective appraisals for determining the value of a home at the date of marriage, updating older appraisals when the market shifts, and why websites like Zillow are not a substitute for a professional valuation.Guest InformationKevin Kearns is a certified residential real estate appraiser with more than two decades of appraisal experience. After beginning his career as a musician and teacher, Kevin transitioned into real estate appraisal in 2001 and has been practicing ever since. Over the years, he has developed substantial expertise in residential valuation, including appraisals involving unique properties, high-value homes, acreage, and horse properties.Episode HighlightsWhy Real Estate Appraisals Matter in Divorce Ryan and Kevin explain why the marital home is often one of the most important assets to value accurately in a divorce case.What an Appraisal Really Is Kevin describes an appraisal as an estimate of market value based on comparable sales and what a typical buyer would be willing to pay.How Appraisers Inspect a Property The conversation covers what Kevin looks at during an inspection, including the home’s condition, updates, layout, location, and neighborhood characteristics.The Importance of Comparable Sales Kevin explains how he selects comparable properties and why the principle of substitution is central to credible appraisal work.Neighborhood and Market Knowledge The episode highlights why appraisers need to understand local market nuances, such as school districts, traffic, neighborhood boundaries, and buyer preferences.What is Divorce at Altitude? Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].************************************************************************DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.