When a loved one passes, settling their estate involves many responsibilities—one of the most important being the accurate valuation of any real property they owned. In a high-value, diverse real estate market like Woodland Hills, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential for probate filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and fair distribution of property.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide timely, legally compliant Date of Death Appraisals throughout Woodland Hills. With over 5,000 appraisals completed since 2005, our certified reports are trusted by estate attorneys, CPAs, trustees, and families for their clarity, accuracy, and compliance.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—determines the fair market value of a property as of the decedent’s date of passing. Unlike a current appraisal, it uses historical sales data and market conditions from that specific date.
This appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court proceedings
IRS estate tax submissions
Trust administration and estate settlement
Step-up in basis for capital gains tax purposes
Equitable asset distribution among beneficiaries
A certified appraisal ensures accuracy, legal compliance, and protection for all involved parties during the estate process.
The Woodland Hills real estate market is highly varied, with neighborhoods ranging from traditional single-family homes to luxury estates in Walnut Acres, Vista de Oro, and Woodland Hills Country Club areas. Lot size, location, views, school zoning, and architectural style all play a major role in property value.
Inaccurate valuations from generalist appraisers or online tools can result in:
Delays in probate
IRS scrutiny or audit risks
Disputes among heirs
Over- or underpayment of estate taxes
With our deep knowledge of Woodland Hills, Pacific Home Appraisers delivers precise and supportable valuations tailored to the property and its unique market segment.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or estate administrator
A trustee distributing property from a trust
A CPA or probate attorney preparing tax or court documents
A beneficiary seeking accurate valuation records
A fiduciary ensuring legal compliance
A family member settling real estate-related matters
Our appraisals are formatted to meet all court and IRS requirements and are accepted by attorneys, financial professionals, and probate judges.
We provide a simple, confidential, and efficient process designed to meet probate timelines and estate requirements.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We gather the necessary property and estate details, confirm the date of death, and schedule the appraisal inspection.
Step Two – On-site property inspection We inspect the property’s features, condition, improvements, and location characteristics. Exterior-only inspections are available as needed.
Step Three – Historical data analysis We research comparable sales and analyze local market trends from the date of death. Adjustments are applied to ensure a fair, accurate valuation.
Step Four – Report delivery We deliver a certified, court-ready appraisal within five to seven business days. Rush delivery within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has been a leading provider of Date of Death Appraisals throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, including hundreds in Woodland Hills.
We offer:
Certified reports for probate, trust, and IRS use
Local expertise in Woodland Hills neighborhoods and home values
Accurate, legally defensible documentation
Quick turnaround with rush options available
Responsive service and collaboration with attorneys and CPAs
We understand the sensitivity of estate matters and are committed to handling every appraisal with care, confidentiality, and precision.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Woodland Hills? Yes. Courts typically require a certified appraisal to determine fair market value of real estate assets as of the date of death.
Can you appraise the property if it’s already been sold? Yes. We provide retrospective appraisals using historical data from the required date, even if the home has changed ownership.
Can I use a Zillow estimate or tax assessment? No. Only a certified appraisal from a licensed professional meets IRS and probate court standards.
Can you work directly with my attorney or accountant? Absolutely. We frequently coordinate with legal and financial professionals to meet deadlines and ensure complete documentation.
We offer Date of Death Appraisal Services in all Woodland Hills communities, including:
Walnut Acres
Vista de Oro
Woodland Hills Country Club area
South of Ventura Blvd
Carlton Terrace
Gated and hillside view properties
New construction and remodeled homes
No matter the property type or location, we deliver accurate, tailored reports with professionalism and care.
If you’re handling an estate or trust in Woodland Hills, rely on Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and accurate appraisal services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us guide you through this important step with clarity, professionalism, and trusted valuation expertise.