Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Calabasas
Managing the estate of a loved one in Calabasas involves both emotional and practical responsibilities. One of the most critical and time-sensitive steps in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, also known as a retrospective appraisal. This appraisal determines the fair market value of a property as of the day the decedent passed away and is required for estate tax reporting, probate filings, and fair asset distribution among heirs.
Whether you're an executor, trustee, attorney, or family member, understanding how Date of Death appraisals work and why they are vital in Calabasas’ high-value real estate market can help you settle an estate efficiently and with legal compliance.
A Date of Death appraisal is a professional evaluation of a property’s fair market value as of a specific past date—usually the day the property owner passed away. This valuation is based on market conditions and comparable sales data from that time, not today's current value.
In Calabasas, where homes can range from $1 million to well over $10 million, this type of appraisal is especially important. Properties in gated communities like The Oaks, Mountain View Estates, or Hidden Hills-adjacent areas require accurate and defensible valuations that reflect the unique attributes and local market trends of each neighborhood.
For estates exceeding the federal exemption threshold, the IRS requires a certified valuation of all assets, including real estate. A DOD appraisal helps determine the estate's taxable value and supports proper reporting. Even when the estate does not exceed the threshold, California probate courts often require an appraisal to validate the reported value.
Heirs benefit from a step-up in basis, meaning the property's tax basis is adjusted to its value on the date of death. This reduces capital gains tax liability if the property is sold in the future. Without a professional appraisal, heirs may overpay on taxes or face IRS scrutiny.
If multiple heirs are involved, a neutral, third-party appraisal ensures that each beneficiary receives their fair share of the estate. This is especially helpful when one heir wants to keep the home while others want a financial distribution.
Los Angeles County courts require official property valuations when submitting estate inventory and accounting documents. A USPAP-compliant appraisal is often mandatory for trust distributions or property transfers.
You should request a Date of Death appraisal if:
You’re the executor or administrator of an estate
Real estate is held in a trust requiring distribution
The property will be sold, gifted, or refinanced
Your attorney or CPA needs a valuation for tax filings
You want to establish the cost basis for capital gains planning
In most cases, it’s better to complete the appraisal early—even if the property isn’t being sold—so there’s documented evidence of its value on the date of death.
A qualified appraiser follows these steps:
The appraiser collects property details such as square footage, bedroom and bathroom count, lot size, amenities, upgrades, and condition. If access to the home is no longer possible, the appraiser may rely on public records, MLS listings, past inspection reports, or photos.
The appraiser researches comparable sales that occurred near the date of death—often within 90 days before or after. These sales must reflect properties similar in location, size, and features.
This method is standard for residential DOD appraisals. It involves adjusting comparable sales to account for differences and arriving at a fair market value as of the retrospective date.
The final appraisal includes a detailed valuation report that meets the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), ensuring legal and financial reliability.
Calabasas real estate is unlike any other. From luxury homes in gated enclaves to hillside retreats and equestrian estates, no two properties are alike. Working with a local appraiser who understands the nuances of the Calabasas market ensures a more accurate and trustworthy appraisal.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we have completed over 5,000 appraisal assignments across Calabasas and surrounding areas. Our team is highly experienced in estate, probate, trust, and retrospective valuations.
Yes. DOD appraisals are retrospective by nature. As long as historical market data exists, we can determine the value as of the specified date—even if it occurred years ago.
No. Assessor values are used for property tax purposes and do not represent actual market value. Courts, the IRS, and financial advisors require a certified appraisal prepared by a licensed professional.
Not necessarily. If the property is inaccessible, the appraiser can use previous listing photos, public records, and other documentation to complete the report.
From The Oaks of Calabasas to Vista Pointe and Mulholland Heights, we understand the diversity of homes and market conditions in every corner of the city. Our appraisals reflect real-time market knowledge and legal compliance, making them ideal for:
Executors
Probate attorneys
CPAs and financial planners
Trustees and beneficiaries
We know this process is personal, and we treat each assignment with professionalism and care.
If you’re managing a Calabasas estate and need a Date of Death appraisal, trust the experts at Pacific Home Appraisers. We’re committed to delivering accurate, timely, and court-ready valuations to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today:
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
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