Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions. Beyond the emotional strain, it brings a series of financial and legal decisions that can feel overwhelming. One of the most significant challenges couples face is dividing marital property fairly—and often, the family home is the largest shared asset.
In St. Charles County, Missouri, courts, mediators, and attorneys rely on certified residential appraisers to determine the fair market value of real estate during divorce proceedings. Without a professional appraisal, disputes about home value can drag out the process, increase costs, and create unnecessary stress.
At 24 Hour Appraisal Group, led by Jacob Geringer, we specialize in providing neutral, defensible, and timely divorce appraisals that protect both parties and help them move forward.
A divorce appraisal is more than just a price opinion. It’s a certified, court-ready valuation that establishes fairness and prevents disputes. Here’s why they matter:
Equitable Distribution: Courts require impartial valuations to divide property fairly between spouses.
Fair Negotiations: By relying on a neutral third-party, couples avoid arguments over inflated or underestimated values.
Retrospective Dates: In some cases, courts require a valuation as of the date of separation or another significant event. Jacob provides retrospective appraisals that meet these requirements.
Defensible Reports: Jacob’s appraisals are prepared to stand up under scrutiny, whether in mediation or in the courtroom.
While most appraisals are ordered for mortgage or refinancing purposes, a divorce appraisal has unique requirements. These include:
Neutrality: The appraiser serves both parties, not just one side.
Detail: Reports are often more comprehensive to anticipate legal challenges.
Flexibility: Retrospective and current market values may both be required.
Confidentiality: Sensitive personal and financial information is handled with care.
Jacob’s experience as both a Certified Residential Appraiser and FHA-Approved Appraiser ensures that his reports meet the highest standards for accuracy, clarity, and legal compliance.
A divorcing couple in St. Peters disagreed on their home’s value—one spouse estimated $400,000, while the other insisted it was worth $360,000. The disagreement stalled negotiations and risked taking the case to trial.
Jacob was brought in as a neutral appraiser. After a thorough inspection, market analysis, and comparison of recent sales, his certified appraisal placed the home’s value at $378,000. Both parties accepted the report, allowing the case to move forward without further dispute.
Reduces Conflict: Provides an independent, factual basis for decisions.
Saves Time: Speeds up the negotiation process by resolving disagreements early.
Court Acceptance: Certified appraisals are trusted by judges, mediators, and attorneys.
Peace of Mind: Ensures both parties are treated fairly and equitably.
When accuracy and neutrality matter most, Jacob Geringer brings unmatched expertise to the table:
Certified Residential Appraiser (Missouri)
FHA-Approved with reports trusted by courts and attorneys
Over 25 years of valuation experience in St. Charles and the greater St. Louis area
Fast turnaround times, typically within 24–72 hours
Professional, confidential service in sensitive situations
Q: Can both spouses use the same appraiser? Yes. In many cases, one neutral appraisal is accepted by both sides. In highly contested cases, each spouse may order their own appraisal.
Q: How is the appraisal date determined? It depends on the court or attorney’s requirements. Some need the current market value, while others require a retrospective date, such as the date of separation.
Q: Are divorce appraisals different from regular home appraisals? Yes. Divorce appraisals often require additional detail, retrospective valuations, and must be prepared to withstand legal scrutiny.
Q: Who pays for the appraisal? Costs are typically shared, but arrangements vary depending on the case and attorney guidance.
Dividing property in a divorce is never easy, but the process doesn’t have to be complicated by disputes over value. A certified divorce appraisal provides fairness, accuracy, and peace of mind during a difficult transition.
At 24 Hour Appraisal Group, Jacob Geringer provides neutral, court-ready reports that help couples, attorneys, and judges make informed decisions. By ensuring both parties are treated fairly, his appraisals reduce conflict and allow everyone to move forward.
Going through a divorce? Let Jacob provide the neutral appraisal you need. Call (314) 570-6794 today or request one online.
Jacob Geringer is the President of 24 Hour Appraisal Group, a Missouri Certified Residential Appraiser, FHA-Approved Appraiser, Broker, and Real Estate Investor with over 25 years of experience. Trusted by attorneys, judges, and families across St. Charles County, Jacob delivers accurate, defensible, and confidential reports for even the most sensitive situations.