Who this is for
- Separating couples working out a property settlement
- Family lawyers acting for one or both parties
- Mediators and parties preparing for mediation
- Parties needing a jointly instructed single expert
What you get
- Full inspection of the property
- Current market value at the agreed valuation date
- Comparable sales evidence and reasoning
- An independent report suitable for mediation or court
- Residential, commercial and industrial property covered
When a family law valuation is needed
When a relationship ends, property usually has to be divided. Before anyone can agree on a fair split, you need a reliable figure for what the property is worth. Separating couples, their lawyers and mediators use a formal valuation to:
- negotiate a property settlement between the parties
- prepare for mediation or a family dispute resolution conference
- support a property settlement being finalised through the courts
- work out whether one party can afford to keep the home
In many matters, both parties agree to jointly instruct a single expert valuer. This is often encouraged because it avoids two competing reports. In other matters each side gets their own valuation. Your lawyer or mediator can tell you which approach suits your situation. The guide to family law property valuations explains the process in more detail.
Which valuation type suits
For family law, a full inspection valuation is usually the right choice. The valuer inspects inside and out, notes the condition and features of the property, and supports the value with comparable sales. That gives both parties, and if needed the court, a clear basis for the figure.
Desktop valuations are designed for quick pre-sale or pre-purchase guidance and are not usually suited to a contested or formal settlement. If you are weighing up the options, see desktop, kerbside and full inspection valuations or simply ask Tom before booking.
Residential full inspection valuations start from $500 + GST. Commercial and industrial reports start from $975 + GST. See the pricing page for details.
Retrospective values
Sometimes a lawyer needs to know what a property was worth at an earlier date, such as the date of separation. Retrospective valuations are available for this purpose, using sales evidence from around the relevant date. Your lawyer will confirm which date or dates matter.
What happens after you enquire
You speak directly with Tom Nagy, not a receptionist. When you call or email:
- Tom asks about the property, who is instructing, and the purpose and date of the valuation.
- If both parties are instructing jointly, the details of both parties or their lawyers are confirmed up front.
- An inspection time is arranged.
- You receive an independent written report stating the market value and the evidence behind it.
Because there is no office administration layer, you can raise questions before you book and after the report is issued.
Why independence matters here
In a separation, emotions often run high and each party can have a very different idea of what the home is worth. An independent Certified Practising Valuer gives an opinion based on the property and the market, not on who is paying.
Tom Nagy is a CPV registered with the Australian Property Institute with more than 30 years in real estate and valuation. His reports are accepted by the courts and professional bodies. He also works across Melbourne and outer regions, with regional Victoria by arrangement.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Please rely on your lawyer for advice about your settlement.
Call 0407 835 388 to talk through your situation, or request a quote.
Common questions
Do both of us need to get separate valuations?
Not always. In family law matters, the parties often agree to jointly instruct a single expert valuer, which can save cost and reduce disputes over value. In other cases each party obtains their own valuation. What suits your matter depends on your circumstances, so ask your lawyer or mediator which approach they recommend before ordering a report.
Can we use a real estate agent's appraisal instead?
An agent's appraisal can be a useful starting point, but it is not a formal valuation. It is usually prepared to win a listing and is not written to the standard expected in mediation or court. A report from a Certified Practising Valuer is independent and supported by market evidence. Your lawyer can advise what level of evidence your matter needs.
My former partner is still living in the property. How does the inspection work?
Access needs to be arranged before a full inspection, and the valuer's role is to remain neutral between the parties. If access is difficult, let Tom know when you first call so the options can be talked through. Your lawyer may also be able to help arrange access through the other party's lawyer.
Will the valuer take sides?
No. A valuer's role is to give an independent opinion of market value, whoever pays for the report. That is the point of using a Certified Practising Valuer. Tom's reports are accepted by the courts, and the value he reports is based on the property and market evidence, not on what either party would prefer.
Do you value business premises and investment property as well as the home?
Yes. Many settlements involve more than the family home. Residential investment properties, and commercial or industrial property such as a business premises, can all be valued. Commercial and industrial reports start from $975 + GST with a 7-day turnaround. Current residential rates are on the pricing page.
Helpful guides
Agent appraisal or certified valuation: what's the difference?
An agent's appraisal helps you plan a sale. A certified valuation is an independent opinion you can rely on for tax, super, court and other formal purposes.
Property valuations in a separation: what to expect
When a relationship ends, an independent valuation helps both sides work from the same figure. Here is what the process usually involves.