// family law
Car valuation for family law property settlements
In a property settlement every vehicle needs a value both parties can accept, and a free online range rarely settles it. An Online Car Valuation (A$49.95) gives an evidence-backed market value to negotiate from. A Certified Comprehensive Valuation (A$149.95) gives a signed report from a certified valuer for solicitors, mediation and court.
Which value counts
Property settlements work from the current market value of each asset: what the car would sell for now between a willing buyer and a willing seller. Not what it cost, not the insured or agreed value, not the figure on the loan statement. If the car has finance, the net asset is the market value less the payout figure; the valuation supplies the first number and the lender the second.
Because values move, the date matters. Parties usually want a figure as close as possible to the date of agreement or hearing. Every report we issue states its valuation date.
Negotiating a figure versus proving one
Most settlements are agreed, not litigated. For negotiation, mediation and family dispute resolution an Online Car Valuation is usually enough: it values the exact registered variant and odometer against live listings and prints the comparable cars, so the other party can check the evidence rather than argue about a screenshot from a free tool. Order both parties' cars in one order and the second vehicle is 10% off.
Choose the Certified Comprehensive Valuation when a solicitor asks for a valuer's report, when the other side disputes the figure, when the vehicle is modified, rare or in unusual condition, or when the matter is heading to court. A certified valuer from Asset Valuations Group inspects the car by video, considers its condition and history, states the purpose as family law and the valuation date, and signs the report.
If it goes to court
The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia generally expects expert evidence on an asset's value to come from a single expert instructed jointly by the parties, rather than each side bringing its own valuer. Your solicitor will advise whether that applies and how the expert is appointed. Tell us if the valuation may be used in proceedings and we will confirm what our valuers can provide for that purpose before you order.
What to send your solicitor
- The valuation PDF (either service) with its report ID and valuation date.
- The registration certificate or a photo of the plate, so the vehicle in the report is clearly the vehicle in the asset pool.
- The most recent finance statement or payout letter, if any.
- Service history and photos if the certified valuer has asked for them.
Value a vehicle · from A$49.95Compare the two valuations
Questions
Can I use the Online Car Valuation in court?
It is a market-based estimate, not a certified valuation, so it is best used to agree a figure. If a valuer's evidence is needed, choose the Certified Comprehensive Valuation and tell us the matter may go to court.
Who pays for the valuation?
Whatever the parties agree. Many split the cost, or each party values the car they are keeping. There is no obligation for either party to use our service.
The car is in my former partner's name. Can I still value it?
Yes. The valuation uses the registration number, state and odometer reading. You will be asked to confirm the vehicle the registry returns is the right one.
What if we disagree with each other's figures?
Compare the comparable listings behind each. If the gap remains, a single certified valuation agreed by both parties is usually quicker and cheaper than arguing two.