When a loved one passes away, determining the accurate value of their real estate holdings is a critical step in managing their estate. In a large and diverse state like California, where property values vary dramatically from city to city and even street to street, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is often required for probate court, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and inheritance planning. Whether you are an executor, trustee, attorney, or family member, a professionally conducted retrospective appraisal ensures legal compliance and financial transparency.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we deliver certified, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals across California. Since 2005, we’ve completed more than 5,000 real estate appraisals for probate, estate settlement, and legal filings. Our work is recognized by courts, tax professionals, and fiduciaries throughout the state.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—determines the fair market value of real property as of the specific date the owner passed away. This valuation is based on comparable sales and market data from that historical period, not the current market.
This type of appraisal is commonly required for:
Probate proceedings
IRS Form 706 estate tax returns
Trust distributions
Step-up in basis calculations
Family settlements and inheritance planning
Only a certified appraisal performed by a licensed real estate appraiser meets the standards set by California probate courts and the IRS.
California’s real estate market is vast and complex. From coastal mansions and urban condos to mountain retreats and agricultural land, the state contains nearly every property type imaginable. The variation in property value, neighborhood appeal, zoning laws, and housing stock means that local expertise is critical for accurate valuations.
Key factors affecting value include:
Location within school districts, metro areas, or unincorporated zones
Proximity to water, open space, employment hubs, and infrastructure
Unique architectural features or lot characteristics
Market conditions at the time of the decedent’s passing
Misjudging these elements can result in:
Inaccurate estate valuations
IRS tax issues or probate delays
Legal challenges from beneficiaries
Unfair asset distribution
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we bring decades of localized knowledge to every appraisal—ensuring fair, defensible, and timely results.
You may require a certified Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee responsible for property distribution
An attorney or CPA managing probate or tax filings
A beneficiary seeking clarity in property inheritance
A fiduciary handling estate documentation and reporting
Our reports are formatted for legal and tax purposes and meet the requirements of probate courts across California.
We provide a structured and respectful appraisal process to guide you through this important task.
Step 1 – Initial Consultation and Scheduling We confirm the effective date of value (the date of death), review property information, and arrange the site visit.
Step 2 – Property Inspection Our licensed appraiser inspects the home to assess condition, upgrades, layout, size, and land features. Exterior-only inspections are available if necessary.
Step 3 – Retrospective Market Research Using comparable sales and market activity from the date of death, we analyze and adjust for market dynamics to determine accurate historical value.
Step 4 – Certified Report Delivery You’ll receive a detailed, certified report within five to seven business days. Rush services with 48-hour delivery are also available.
Certified and court-compliant appraisals
More than 5,000 appraisals completed since 2005
Statewide coverage across all California regions
Fast turnaround with rush options available
Trusted by legal, tax, and financial professionals
Deep experience with single-family homes, estates, condos, land, and unique properties
We understand the weight of this process and offer compassionate, professional service every step of the way.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate? Yes. Probate courts and the IRS require a certified appraisal to verify property value at the time of the decedent’s passing.
What if the property has already been sold? We can still provide a retrospective appraisal using historical data from the date of death.
Is a Zillow estimate or tax assessor value acceptable? No. Online estimates and assessed values do not meet the legal or tax documentation standards required for estate administration.
Can you work directly with my attorney or CPA? Yes. We regularly collaborate with legal and financial professionals throughout the state to ensure a smooth process.
We provide certified Date of Death Appraisal Services in:
Los Angeles County
Orange County
San Diego County
Riverside and San Bernardino Counties
Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties
The San Francisco Bay Area
Central California
Inland and agricultural regions
High-value coastal and mountain communities
Whether you're managing an estate in an urban center, coastal town, or rural area, we are ready to assist.
If you're handling probate, trust, or estate settlement in California, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to deliver certified, accurate, and timely valuation services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
We are committed to helping you navigate this process with clarity, professionalism, and the reliable documentation you need.