Frequently when we are involved in the divorce part of our practice, the couple cannot agree on the value of the house. They can't agree who gets Rover, the china, or which holidays the children are with which parent so why would the value of real estate or the choice of a Realtor be any different...it would not. We had one attorney years ago tell us that the couple MUST agree on which Realtor would list the property...nice thought...not happening.
The court looks for the impartial determination of the value of the property...and we applaud that view. One would think that could easily be obtained by ordering that the property be appraised by a Wisconsin licensed appraiser. This takes away the possibiity that a Realtor could "buy" the listing at a higher price to obtain it and later do the Price Reduction dance as it lingers on the market at a price far higher than the market will accept.
Objectivity is a wonderful thing....and complimented by expertise and familiarity with the market in which the home is located, it would be outstanding. The judge chooses the appraiser without the benefit of having this knowledge...only knowing that the apprai
ser is licensed and dare we use the dreaded word..."assuming" that they are qualified for determining the value of a home in any area within several counties. Sigh....not true. After having had this experience multiple times, you don't wonder why there is a blindfold on "Lady Justice".
In our area of what we refer to as "Lake Country" where are the 91 lakes you have read us blog about...the values can be very, very different from one lake to another. It takes time to evaluate a property carefully...not only that is on a lake...but which lake...or in some cases...what side of the lake...or is it in a bay...or is the house a a walk out at water level verses a steep climb or long distance....all of these factors play a part in determining the desirability of a lake property in addition to those applied to every property...location, condition, updates, size, age.
Assuming that an appraisal supplies the answer to price that the market will find acceptable and actually sell at...history has shown us is dangerous. Further and careful examination is required. The proof of course is in the price that the property actually receives in offers....and one or both members of the couple is likely to find as too low. The proceeds will not supply the "start over" money and pay the legal expenses of this drawn out affair.....it may require further court intercession...and hope the buyers are patient while the legal dance continues.
Divorce and real estate is an interesting niche....we are stimulated by the challenge it presents. If you or anyone you know is divorcing....or has divorced and is in need of a Realtor...Call the Hansons...we have the expertise and successful experience to work through the obstacles thrown in the path of a successful sale. We represent the best price for the property...not either member of the former couple...and consider every possible unique aspect in determining the value for the shortest time on the market and the highest possible return on their real estate investment.
Prompt professional service and proven results for all things Real Estate.....the only Real Estate Divorce experts in Wisconsin.
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