Losing a loved one is never easy. Beyond the emotional toll, families in Agoura Hills often face the practical responsibilities of managing an estate. One essential yet often overlooked aspect of this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal—a retrospective valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the individual passed away.
For residents and professionals handling probate or trust matters in Agoura Hills, understanding the purpose, timing, and process of a Date of Death appraisal is crucial. This guide explains why it's important, how it works, and how Pacific Home Appraisers can help ensure a smooth, legally compliant estate settlement.
A Date of Death appraisal—also called a retrospective appraisal—is a real estate valuation performed for a specific date in the past, typically the day the property owner passed away. This appraisal is conducted to determine the property's fair market value at that time, not its current worth.
In the case of estates in Agoura Hills, the property might be a single-family home in Morrison Ranch, a luxury estate in Old Agoura, or a home nestled near the Santa Monica Mountains. Regardless of the property type, accurate valuation is essential for legal and financial reasons.
The IRS and California Franchise Tax Board require real estate to be appraised as of the date of death for estate tax reporting. If the estate is above a certain value threshold, taxes may apply—and the property must be accurately valued to determine the correct tax liability.
Heirs benefit from what's called a step-up in basis, where the inherited property's tax basis is "stepped up" to its value at the time of death. This significantly reduces capital gains tax when the property is eventually sold.
Without a formal DOD appraisal, heirs in Agoura Hills could unknowingly overpay on capital gains, or face IRS scrutiny if the valuation is later challenged.
When multiple heirs are involved, a professionally prepared, unbiased appraisal helps ensure that all parties receive their fair share. This is especially useful in resolving disputes or when one heir wishes to retain the property while others prefer a financial buyout.
Ventura and Los Angeles County probate courts often require a DOD appraisal as part of the legal filing process. Whether you’re going through formal probate or administering a living trust, the court may request an IRS-compliant valuation of the decedent’s property.
You should request a DOD appraisal in any of the following situations:
You are the executor or administrator of an estate
The estate involves property transfers or sales
An attorney or CPA has asked for a retrospective value
You plan to refinance, gift, or sell inherited real estate
You are dividing property among multiple heirs
Even if estate taxes don’t apply, having a defensible, professional appraisal on file helps prevent disputes and reduces legal or tax exposure in the future.
A certified appraiser will:
If the home is still accessible, the appraiser may inspect the property to verify details. However, even without access, a DOD appraisal can be completed using MLS data, prior listings, public records, and aerial photography.
Using historical sales data for similar Agoura Hills properties, the appraiser adjusts for differences in size, amenities, location, and condition to develop a fair market value as of the exact date in question.
For most residential appraisals, this method is preferred. It compares the subject property with recently sold homes in Agoura Hills to calculate a retrospective value.
Your final report includes detailed documentation and meets the standards of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)—a requirement for court and IRS acceptance.
Choosing a local expert makes all the difference. Agoura Hills has a wide range of property types—from horse properties in equestrian neighborhoods to contemporary hillside estates. Local market familiarity ensures more accurate comparables, smarter adjustments, and ultimately, a more credible valuation.
Pacific Home Appraisers is based nearby and has completed over 5,000 assignments across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. We specialize in Date of Death, Trust, and Probate appraisals and understand what local courts, attorneys, and tax professionals expect.
There’s no statute of limitations on retrospective appraisals. Whether the death occurred a month ago or several years ago, we can determine value as of the needed date using historical data and records.
Yes. Even if you’re keeping the home, a Date of Death appraisal is important for tax basis, legal filings, and future planning.
No. Assessed values are typically not reliable for market valuation. Courts and the IRS require a professional appraisal report to determine actual fair market value.
Whether your property is in Lake Lindero, Old Agoura, or the Hillrise neighborhood, we understand the nuances of Agoura Hills real estate. From proximity to award-winning schools to scenic mountain views, our local expertise ensures accurate and well-supported valuations.
We take great pride in helping families through sensitive transitions with compassion, professionalism, and discretion.
If you're an executor, attorney, CPA, or family member handling an estate in Agoura Hills, we’re here to help. Let us guide you through the appraisal process with clarity and confidence.
Contact Pacific Home Appraisers today:
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Tags: #AgouraHillsAppraiser #DateOfDeathAppraisal #EstateValuation #ProbateAppraisal #TrustAppraisal #RetrospectiveAppraisal #PacificHomeAppraisers #CertifiedAppraiserAgouraHills