Settling a loved one’s estate in a luxury coastal community like Malibu requires accuracy, expertise, and discretion—especially when real estate is involved. If you are an executor, trustee, attorney, or beneficiary, obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal is a necessary step in the probate and estate process. This appraisal determines the fair market value of the property as of the decedent’s date of passing and is required for legal, tax, and inheritance purposes.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide accurate, IRS-compliant Date of Death Appraisals for high-value residential properties throughout Malibu. Our team specializes in complex, custom-built homes, coastal estates, and luxury properties—delivering certified reports accepted by courts, CPAs, and the IRS.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a retrospective real estate valuation that reflects a property’s fair market value on the specific date the owner passed away. Unlike a current appraisal, it relies on historical market data, comparable sales, and local market conditions from that time.
This type of appraisal is often required for:
Probate filings
IRS estate tax returns
Trust administration
Beneficiary asset division
Step-up in basis for capital gains taxes
An accurate retrospective appraisal helps ensure full compliance with legal and tax requirements, and prevents valuation disputes.
Malibu is one of the most sought-after real estate markets in California, with beachfront homes, ocean-view estates, hillside properties, and gated communities. The market includes high-value homes in neighborhoods such as Carbon Beach, Point Dume, Broad Beach, and Malibu Colony, where even minor differences in location, view, or access can greatly impact value.
A generic appraisal or automated estimate may lead to:
Incorrect estate tax reporting
Delays in probate proceedings
Disputes between heirs or beneficiaries
IRS challenges or audits
Pacific Home Appraisers has in-depth experience in the Malibu market. We understand the nuances of luxury coastal properties and use relevant historical data to provide accurate, defendable appraisals.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of a will or estate
A trustee managing the transfer of real property
A probate attorney or CPA assisting with estate or tax matters
A family member or beneficiary involved in inheritance
A fiduciary or advisor ensuring proper documentation
A certified appraisal provides legal and financial clarity, helping ensure a smooth estate settlement process.
Our process is professional, efficient, and tailored to luxury real estate estates.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We confirm the date of death and gather relevant property details. An appointment is scheduled promptly and with full discretion.
Step Two – On-site inspection Our licensed appraiser inspects the home, noting size, quality, views, amenities, lot features, and condition. In cases of limited access, an exterior-only inspection can be arranged.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research comparable properties and historical sales data from the time of death and apply valuation adjustments based on Malibu’s high-end market characteristics.
Step Four – Report delivery You receive a certified, court-ready appraisal report within five to seven business days. Rush delivery within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has completed over 5,000 appraisals, including hundreds of luxury, coastal, and estate properties in Malibu and surrounding areas.
We offer:
Certified appraisals accepted by probate courts and the IRS
Specialized experience with Malibu luxury and oceanfront properties
Market knowledge of unique neighborhoods and property types
Accurate, defendable reports with rapid turnaround
Professional communication and discreet service
We understand the emotional and legal weight of the estate process and provide the confidence and clarity needed during this time.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate Yes. Most probate courts require a certified appraisal of any real estate owned by the decedent as of their date of passing.
Can you complete an appraisal if the home has already been sold Yes. We can perform a retrospective appraisal using data from the required date, even after the property has been transferred or sold.
Are Zillow estimates or tax records acceptable No. Online estimates and assessed tax values do not meet the standards required by the court or IRS. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed professional is acceptable.
Can you work with my attorney or accountant Yes. We often work directly with legal and financial professionals to meet deadlines and documentation requirements.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout Malibu, including:
Carbon Beach
Malibu Colony
Broad Beach
Point Dume
La Costa Beach
Serra Retreat
Big Rock and Las Flores Canyon
Malibu Park and Winding Way
Gated hillside and oceanfront estates
Whether the property is beachfront, hillside, equestrian, or architectural, we are equipped to handle Malibu’s most complex valuations.
If you are managing an estate or trust in Malibu, contact Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and professional valuation services. We provide trusted reports that meet the highest standards in legal, tax, and financial settings.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us support you with the experience, professionalism, and attention to detail your estate deserves.