In a bankruptcy case the value of the debtor's home determines how much equity exists above the mortgages and the homestead exemption — and that, in turn, shapes whether a trustee looks to sell the property, what a Chapter 13 plan must pay, and whether a junior lien is secured at all. A documented market value is the foundation for those decisions.
How the value is used
Debtors list the property's value on their schedules, trustees test that value when deciding whether there is equity worth administering, and Chapter 13 plans are measured against what creditors would receive in a liquidation. When a second mortgage or home-equity line is completely unsecured because the first loan exceeds the home's value, an appraisal is usually the key evidence in a motion to value.
Filing date or current date
Bankruptcy values are typically tied to the petition date, but some motions call for a current value or a value on a confirmation or hearing date. We confirm the effective date with counsel before beginning so the report answers the question the court will actually ask.
Working with counsel
We prepare reports for debtor's attorneys, trustees and creditors alike, and the conclusion does not change based on who orders it. If the valuation is challenged, Brian can explain the analysis in a deposition or at an evidentiary hearing.
Report options
These report types are most often used for this purpose. The quote you receive will confirm which one fits your situation.
Requesting this appraisal
Use the request form to share the property address, the purpose and the effective date you need. You will receive a written quote and delivery date by email — usually within one business day — with no obligation until you approve it.