Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Van Nuys
When a loved one passes away, families in Van Nuys are often left with the task of settling the estate—an emotional and logistical challenge. One essential step in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the fair market value of a property as of the date of the decedent’s passing. This appraisal is required for estate tax filings, probate court documentation, and in many cases, to support the equitable distribution of assets among heirs.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide certified and court-compliant Date of Death appraisals throughout Van Nuys—from Valley Glen to the Chandler Estates area—with accuracy, efficiency, and professionalism.
A Date of Death appraisal, also called a retrospective appraisal, evaluates the market value of a home based on historical sales data and market conditions from the date a property owner passed away. This value is not based on today’s real estate market but reflects the actual value at that past point in time.
In a diverse and evolving market like Van Nuys—where real estate ranges from starter homes to multi-family properties and fully remodeled mid-century houses—having an experienced, local appraiser is critical for accurate results.
The IRS requires an accurate market valuation of real property to determine estate tax liability. If the estate’s value exceeds the exemption threshold, a certified appraisal is necessary to calculate taxes properly and protect against audits or penalties.
When heirs inherit a property, the tax basis is "stepped up" to reflect the market value at the time of death. This reduces capital gains taxes when the property is sold in the future. A DOD appraisal establishes that value officially.
For estates involving multiple heirs, a DOD appraisal provides a neutral, third-party valuation of the property. This ensures fair financial distribution and helps resolve potential disputes when one heir keeps the home and others receive monetary compensation.
Los Angeles County courts require a USPAP-compliant appraisal when filing probate or accounting for trust assets. A DOD appraisal helps support legal filings, transfer of ownership, and court approvals.
A Date of Death appraisal is needed when:
You’re the executor, trustee, or administrator of an estate
The property is part of a trust or probate estate
You’re working with a CPA or estate attorney
The home will be sold, refinanced, or transferred to heirs
The estate is being divided among beneficiaries
You need to establish a stepped-up basis for future capital gains planning
Even if a sale isn’t immediate, a DOD appraisal documents essential financial information for future use.
The appraiser gathers detailed data about the home—square footage, lot size, upgrades, condition, and location. If physical access is not possible, information may be obtained from public records, past MLS listings, or photos.
The appraiser researches similar sales near the decedent’s date of death and adjusts for any differences in features, size, location, and condition. In Van Nuys, this may include comps from areas such as Valley Glen, Lake Balboa, or Midvale Estates.
The most common valuation method, this approach compares the subject property to recent sales around the date of death to determine its fair market value at that time.
The final appraisal report adheres to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and is accepted by the IRS, probate courts, attorneys, and financial advisors.
While Date of Death appraisals are essential for estate matters, Pacific Home Appraisers also provides:
Divorce Appraisals – Independent, court-ready valuations for fair division of real property
Expert Witness Services – Litigation support and testimony for valuation disputes
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including pre-listing, refinancing, gifting, estate planning, and property tax appeals
Each report is custom-built to suit your legal, financial, or personal requirements.
Van Nuys is one of the most active and diverse markets in the San Fernando Valley. From post-war homes near Victory Blvd to modern remodels near Hazeltine Park, property values can vary widely. With over 5,000 appraisals completed, we bring the experience and local insight needed to provide precise, credible valuations.
Our team is known for:
Fast turnarounds (5–7 days)
Rush delivery available within 48 hours upon inspection
Court and IRS-compliant reports
Responsive communication with attorneys and clients
Yes. These appraisals are retrospective and can be performed months or even years later, using historical market data from the time of death.
Yes. Even if you retain the property, a DOD appraisal is essential for establishing the tax basis, which helps avoid overpaying capital gains in the future.
No. Assessed values do not reflect true market conditions. The IRS and courts require a certified appraisal from a licensed appraiser.
If you're handling probate, managing a trust, or simply need a professional real estate valuation in Van Nuys, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to deliver accuracy, professionalism, and peace of mind.
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
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