Managing the estate of a loved one often involves determining the value of real property left behind. In an ultra-luxury market like Bel Air, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is not just a formality—it’s a critical requirement for probate filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and high-value asset distribution. Whether you're an executor, attorney, trustee, or beneficiary, a retrospective appraisal ensures that the estate is handled with financial accuracy and legal compliance.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we specialize in delivering high-end, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals throughout Bel Air. With over 5,000 assignments completed since 2005, we are trusted by probate attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries for our deep experience with Los Angeles’ most exclusive estates and properties.
A Date of Death Appraisal, also referred to as a retrospective appraisal, determines the fair market value of real estate as of the date the property owner passed away. This valuation is based on historical market data, not the current market value, and it plays a vital role in the legal and tax resolution of an estate.
These appraisals are required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax returns and audits
Trust settlements and distributions
Step-up in basis calculations for capital gains
Fair asset division among heirs
A certified appraisal protects all parties involved and ensures full legal and tax compliance.
Bel Air is one of the most prestigious real estate markets in the world, with properties ranging from $5 million to over $100 million. The value of these estates is influenced by a complex array of factors: gated access, architectural pedigree, acreage, privacy, views, and proximity to elite enclaves like East Gate Bel Air, Stone Canyon, and Upper Casiano.
Generalized appraisals or inexperienced appraisers can result in:
Massively incorrect valuations
IRS scrutiny or audit triggers
Heir disputes over misvalued property
Delays in probate or trust distribution
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we understand how to properly evaluate trophy estates, luxury architecture, and market movements specific to Bel Air.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of a high-value estate
A trustee managing the distribution of luxury real estate
A CPA or probate attorney preparing estate tax filings
A beneficiary involved in inheritance planning
A fiduciary responsible for compliance and financial reporting
Our reports are certified, defensible, and tailored for legal, financial, and IRS scrutiny.
We offer a structured, discreet, and detailed appraisal process suitable for the unique demands of luxury estate valuation.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We confirm the decedent’s date of passing, review the property’s history and features, and schedule a comprehensive on-site evaluation.
Step Two – Property inspection Our senior appraiser conducts an in-depth inspection, documenting the property’s condition, square footage, amenities, luxury upgrades, architecture, landscaping, and lot characteristics. Exterior-only inspections can be arranged for privacy or restricted access cases.
Step Three – Historical valuation and analysis We analyze comparable sales data from the time of death, with adjustments for luxury factors including view, location, pedigree, and design. Our valuations are benchmarked against Bel Air’s elite property sales history.
Step Four – Delivery of certified report We provide a court- and IRS-ready certified report within five to seven business days. Rush service within 48 hours is available upon request.
Pacific Home Appraisers has been the trusted choice for luxury estate appraisals in Bel Air for nearly 20 years.
We offer:
Certified reports accepted by courts, fiduciaries, and the IRS
Specialization in ultra-luxury and high-net-worth properties
Local knowledge of Bel Air’s submarkets, from East Gate to Upper Bel Air
Confidential, professional handling of high-value estates
Fast turnaround with rush options available
We understand the discretion, detail, and legal compliance required when appraising real estate at the highest level.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Bel Air? Yes. California probate courts and the IRS require a certified appraisal to establish the fair market value of the property as of the owner’s death.
Can you provide an appraisal even if the home has already sold? Yes. A retrospective appraisal is based on the property’s value at the date of death, regardless of any later sale.
Can I use a Realtor’s opinion or a Zillow estimate? No. Only a certified appraisal from a licensed appraiser is acceptable for legal or IRS documentation.
Do you work with estate attorneys, wealth managers, and CPAs? Absolutely. We collaborate directly with legal and financial professionals to ensure complete and accurate reporting.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout the Bel Air area, including:
East Gate Bel Air
Stone Canyon Road
Bellagio Road
Upper Casiano
Bel Air Crest
Moraga Estates
Beverly Glen
Gated and hillside luxury properties
From historic estates to architectural landmarks and new construction, we provide white-glove appraisal service tailored to each property’s unique profile.
If you are handling a probate or estate matter in Bel Air, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to deliver certified, timely, and precise valuation services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you navigate this critical step with confidence, discretion, and expert-level valuation—ensuring your estate is properly documented and legally secure.