Buying Out Your Spouse's Share of the House: Why the Value Matters

When one spouse keeps the home, the other is usually paid for their share of the equity. That math starts with what the home is worth, so the value matters to both people.

How the numbers generally work

Equity is roughly the home's market value minus what is owed on it. If the value is set too high or too low, one spouse ends up paying or receiving more than they should. An independent appraisal gives both sides the same starting number.

Refinancing to buy out

If the spouse keeping the house refinances to pay the other out, the lender will usually order its own appraisal. A private appraisal earlier in the process helps you plan and negotiate before you get to that point.

What Sam does and doesn't do

Sam provides the value and explains how he reached it. How equity is split, credits and debts is a question for your attorney or mediator.

Quick answers

How is a spouse buyout calculated?

Generally it starts with the home's market value minus the mortgage balance. Your attorney or mediator handles how that equity is divided.

Will the lender accept my private appraisal for a refinance?

Usually not; lenders typically order their own. A private appraisal is for planning and negotiating the buyout.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Talk with your attorney or mediator about your situation.

Who keeps the house? Buying out your spouse