Why Attorneys Rely on Independent Property Valuers For Estate Disputes
Property valuation for estate purposes is a powerful tool during the administration of deceased estates, divorces, partnerships dissolving, or when heirs or co-owners cannot agree. These matters frequently end up in the hands of attorneys — and when they do, attorneys turn to independent property valuers to provide clarity and objectivity.
As a professional valuer, I work closely with legal professionals to deliver factual, defensible valuations that help resolve these disputes efficiently and fairly.
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The Nature of Estate Disputes
Some of the most common disputes involving property include:
- Family members disagreeing on the value of inherited property
- Executors accused of undervaluing (or overvaluing) an estate asset
- Siblings fighting over who gets the house — and what it’s worth
- One party wanting to buy out the other at a “reasonable” price
- Beneficiaries disputing the asset division due to lack of transparency
These situations are often emotionally charged. An independent, professional valuation helps bring the conversation back to facts.
Why Attorneys Use Independent Valuers for Property valuation for estate purposes
Attorneys value the expertise of a registered valuer because:
- We offer unbiased assessments — not influenced by emotion or personal interest
- Our reports are legally defensible and suitable for court or arbitration
- We are able to provide both current and retrospective valuations
- Our methodology is based on recent comparable sales, not assumptions or sentiment
A solid valuation can avoid months (or even years) of dispute. It allows attorneys to guide clients toward fair settlements — or present solid evidence in court when needed.
Common Scenarios We’re Asked to Value
- Disputed Deceased Estates: When family members or heirs believe a property has been unfairly valued by the executor
- Partnership Disputes: When co-owners (often business partners or former spouses) disagree on the property’s worth
- Sectional Title Conflicts: Where trustees and owners cannot agree on buy-in or buy-out prices
- Buy-Outs: One heir or partner wishes to retain the property and must determine a fair market value to pay the other(s)
In each of these, our job is to provide a factual, neutral report.
Municipal Values vs. Market Valuations
Municipal values are not sufficient for resolving legal disputes. They:
- Are often 3–5 years out of date
- May not reflect condition, location, or improvements
- Are not based on current comparable sales
In contrast, our valuations are detailed, up-to-date, and explain exactly how we reached our conclusion — providing transparency for all parties involved.
Retrospective Valuations for Estate Disputes
Sometimes a dispute arises years after a property was transferred or distributed. In these cases, I can provide a retrospective valuation — determining what the property was worth on a specific date in the past, such as:
- Date of death
- Date of separation or divorce
- Date of a trust or company transaction
These valuations are often required for SARS, legal proceedings, or family disputes.
Supporting Attorneys with Professional Reports
My reports are written with attorneys and the Master’s Office in mind. Each includes:
- The valuer’s credentials and registration
- A clear market value based on local data
- Supporting sales evidence
- Photos and notes on condition and zoning
- Explanation of methodology used
I’m also available for follow-up questions or clarification, should the need arise.
Real Example: Dispute Resolved Using Property valuation for estate purposes
An attorney recently contacted me about a disputed estate in George. The properties in the estate were to be divided between the heirs. The properties were different and the monetary value needed to be established. I was asked to provide an independent market valuation. After submitting my report, both parties agreed to the new figure and the matter was settled — avoiding litigation. The estate, which had been delayed by 2 years due to the dispute, could now move forward.
Need a Property valuation for estate purposes or dispute?
Legal disputes are rarely about just the numbers — but the numbers matter a great deal. As a valuer, my role is to provide clear, unbiased data that supports attorneys and helps their clients move forward with confidence.
If you’re an attorney needing support in a property-related dispute, or a private individual seeking a valuation for legal clarity, I offer discreet, professional service backed by registration and years of experience.
Contact Claire King 0732324407
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