When a loved one passes, part of managing their estate involves determining the fair market value of any real property they owned. In a high-demand coastal city like Huntington Beach, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is critical for probate court filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and inheritance planning. Whether you’re an executor, trustee, estate attorney, or family member, a properly conducted retrospective appraisal ensures that the estate complies with legal and tax requirements.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide certified, reliable Date of Death Appraisals throughout Huntington Beach. With over 5,000 assignments completed since 2005, our team delivers court-ready, accurate valuations trusted by estate attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries across Orange County.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also called a retrospective appraisal—establishes the fair market value of a property as of the exact date the owner passed away. Unlike current appraisals, this type uses historical sales data and market trends from that specific point in time.
It is commonly required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax submissions
Trust and estate planning
Capital gains step-up in basis calculations
Fair distribution of inherited property
This certified valuation ensures transparency, legal compliance, and financial accuracy throughout the estate settlement process.
Huntington Beach offers a variety of property types—from oceanfront homes on Pacific Coast Highway, to gated estates in Huntington Harbour, to mid-century family homes inland and modern condos downtown. Location, school district, water access, view orientation, and even proximity to Main Street can significantly affect property value.
Working with an out-of-area appraiser or relying on online estimates can result in:
Incorrect estate valuation
Delayed probate proceedings
IRS disputes or audit risk
Disagreements among heirs or beneficiaries
Pacific Home Appraisers has deep familiarity with the Huntington Beach market and provides localized, accurate valuations that reflect the specific characteristics of each property.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee responsible for real property distribution
A CPA or estate attorney preparing tax or probate filings
A beneficiary seeking accurate property valuation
A fiduciary ensuring compliance with court and IRS standards
A family member handling estate matters with fairness and transparency
Our reports are accepted by courts, the IRS, and financial institutions.
We follow a clear, professional process designed to meet estate timelines and legal requirements.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We confirm the retrospective appraisal date, review the property details, and schedule an inspection.
Step Two – Property inspection We conduct a thorough on-site inspection, documenting the home’s condition, features, improvements, and neighborhood specifics. Exterior-only inspections are available if needed.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research comparable sales from the date of death and apply valuation methodology tailored to Huntington Beach’s local market dynamics.
Step Four – Certified report delivery You’ll receive a court-ready appraisal within five to seven business days. Rush delivery within 48 hours is available upon request.
With nearly two decades of experience, Pacific Home Appraisers is a trusted source for certified estate appraisals in Huntington Beach and across Orange County.
We provide:
Certified reports for probate, estate, and IRS filings
Local expertise in Huntington Beach real estate trends and values
Accurate, defendable documentation
Timely turnaround with rush options available
Direct collaboration with attorneys, CPAs, and estate planners
Our focus is on supporting clients with professionalism, precision, and respect for the sensitive nature of estate settlement.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Huntington Beach? Yes. Probate courts typically require a certified appraisal to establish the fair market value of real estate on the date of death.
Can the appraisal be completed if the home has already been sold? Yes. A retrospective appraisal is based on historical data and can be completed even after the property has been transferred or sold.
Can I use a Zillow estimate or property tax value instead? No. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed professional is acceptable for probate and IRS purposes.
Do you work directly with attorneys or accountants? Yes. We often coordinate with estate attorneys, fiduciaries, and tax professionals to ensure compliance and smooth communication.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services across all of Huntington Beach, including:
Huntington Harbour
Pacific City
Downtown Huntington Beach
Seacliff
Beachwalk
Bolsa Chica
Yorktown
Goldenwest
Adams and Newland areas
From waterfront estates to suburban residences, we provide accurate, tailored appraisals that reflect true historical market value.
If you are handling a probate or estate matter in Huntington Beach, 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
Let us assist you with professionalism and clarity—ensuring your estate appraisal is fully compliant, locally informed, and legally defensible.