Today’s Alert: The Costly Mistake of Using the Wrong Appraisal Form in Divorce

In my divorce financial advisory practice, I often see small oversights turn into expensive problems. One such issue was recently highlighted by the Divorce Lending Association: using the wrong appraisal form in divorce proceedings.

As Gary Coyle of The Coyle Group explains, divorce appraisals are not the same as standard mortgage appraisals. The commonly used URAR 1004 Form is intended only for lending purposes and explicitly states it should not be used outside of mortgage finance. If used in a divorce case, it may be ruled inadmissible in court, requiring a new appraisal—potentially with a less favorable outcome—and more legal fees.

Instead, the appropriate format for divorce-related valuations is the GPAR (General Purpose Appraisal Report). Using the correct form from the start can save time, money, and legal headaches.

At Divorce Planning of Austin, we help you avoid costly mistakes like these. We provide clear financial analysis to support your negotiations and guide you through the asset division process with precision and strategy.

Learn more at www.divorceplanningofaustin.com.

Robertson Stephens Wealth Management and Divorce Planning of Austin will work with your attorney and tax professional to help you make better financial decisions during and after your divorce.

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