Handling the estate of a loved one is a significant responsibility, especially when real estate is involved. In a competitive, high-value coastal market like Hermosa Beach, obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential for probate court filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and equitable asset distribution. Whether you're an executor, trustee, estate attorney, or family member, a properly documented retrospective appraisal ensures accuracy, compliance, and peace of mind during a sensitive time.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide detailed, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals for properties across Hermosa Beach. With over 5,000 appraisals completed since 2005, our experience with beachfront and hillside properties ensures that every report is locally informed, legally compliant, and professionally delivered.
A Date of Death Appraisal, also known as a retrospective appraisal, determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the property owner passed away. It relies on historical sales data and market conditions from that specific time rather than the present-day market.
This appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax filings
Trust and estate planning or dissolution
Step-up in basis for capital gains tax
Property division among heirs or beneficiaries
A certified report ensures accuracy, transparency, and legal compliance throughout the estate settlement process.
Hermosa Beach is one of the most dynamic and desirable markets in the South Bay, featuring everything from luxury Strand-front homes and hillside estates with panoramic views, to income properties and beach bungalows. Home values can vary widely depending on ocean proximity, walkability, view orientation, lot size, and zoning.
A general appraiser or online estimate can result in:
Incorrect estate valuation
Delays in probate administration
IRS rejections or audit exposure
Disputes between beneficiaries or family members
Pacific Home Appraisers understands the nuances of Hermosa Beach’s coastal market and delivers accurate, neighborhood-specific appraisals tailored to each unique property.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or estate administrator
A trustee managing the distribution of real property
A probate attorney or CPA preparing estate filings
A beneficiary involved in inheritance or property transfer
A fiduciary ensuring compliance with probate court and tax regulations
Our certified appraisals are accepted by the IRS, California probate courts, and financial professionals statewide.
We follow a streamlined, professional process designed to meet deadlines and legal requirements efficiently.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We confirm the appraisal’s retrospective date, gather property information, and schedule an on-site inspection.
Step Two – Property inspection We document the property’s condition, features, location, improvements, and surrounding market characteristics. Exterior-only inspections are available as needed.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research and analyze comparable Hermosa Beach sales from the time of death and apply local market adjustments to determine accurate fair market value.
Step Four – Certified report delivery Your certified appraisal is delivered within five to seven business days. Rush service within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has delivered thousands of certified residential appraisals across Southern California, including Hermosa Beach and the surrounding South Bay area.
We provide:
Certified reports accepted by probate courts, the IRS, and CPAs
In-depth knowledge of Hermosa Beach neighborhoods and luxury markets
Timely delivery with rush service options available
Accurate, defensible documentation for legal and tax purposes
Professional service with transparent communication
We treat every assignment with the care and confidentiality estate matters deserve.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Hermosa Beach? Yes. Probate courts require a certified appraisal to establish the fair market value of real estate at the time of the decedent’s passing.
Can you perform the appraisal if the home was already sold? Yes. Retrospective appraisals are based on historical data and can be completed even if the property has changed ownership.
Can I use an online estimate or tax assessment instead? No. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed professional is valid for probate or IRS use.
Do you work with attorneys or accountants? Yes. We frequently collaborate with estate attorneys, fiduciaries, and tax professionals to meet legal and financial deadlines.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout Hermosa Beach, including:
The Strand
Hermosa Hills
North Hermosa
South Hermosa
Hermosa Valley
Sand Section
Walkstreet properties
Pier Avenue-adjacent residences
Mixed-use and investment properties
Whether the property is a beachfront estate, view home, or duplex, we provide valuations tailored to the specifics of the local market and the relevant date.
If you’re managing an estate or probate case in Hermosa Beach, trust Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, accurate, and timely appraisal services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us support you with experience, professionalism, and a detailed valuation you can rely on—ensuring full compliance with all legal and financial requirements.