Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Westside Los Angeles
Managing an estate after the loss of a loved one requires both compassion and precision. A key component in the process is securing a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the fair market value of a property as of the exact date the decedent passed away. In highly sought-after areas like Westside Los Angeles, where real estate prices vary widely between neighborhoods such as Brentwood, Westwood, Cheviot Hills, and Century City, a certified DOD appraisal is essential for IRS compliance, probate court documentation, and fair distribution of assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we specialize in accurate, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisals throughout Westside LA, delivering trusted, timely reports for families, attorneys, CPAs, and trustees.
A Date of Death appraisal (also called a retrospective appraisal) determines the market value of a property based on conditions at the time of the decedent’s passing. It relies on historical data—specifically comparable home sales from the date in question—to produce a reliable, supportable valuation.
Westside Los Angeles presents unique challenges due to its market diversity. From luxury condos in Wilshire Corridor to traditional estates in Little Holmby, local market knowledge is critical.
If the estate exceeds the federal exemption limit, the IRS requires a certified valuation of any real estate. A DOD appraisal ensures filings are accurate and protects heirs and executors from audit exposure.
Heirs benefit from a stepped-up tax basis, adjusting the home’s value to its market rate at the time of death. A DOD appraisal documents this value, potentially saving thousands in capital gains taxes upon sale.
When an estate includes multiple heirs, a neutral, third-party valuation is essential to ensure fair and defensible distribution—especially when one beneficiary wants to keep the property while others seek compensation.
Courts in Los Angeles County require a USPAP-compliant appraisal for all real property reported in probate cases and trust documentation. A DOD appraisal satisfies this requirement.
You’ll need a Date of Death appraisal if:
You’re an executor, trustee, or administrator handling a Westside estate
The estate includes real property in Brentwood, Westwood, Century City, or adjacent areas
A CPA or attorney requires a historical valuation for tax or estate purposes
The property will be sold, transferred, or divided among heirs
You’re filing an estate tax return (IRS Form 706)
You need to document a stepped-up basis for capital gains tax protection
The appraiser collects data on square footage, upgrades, condition, lot size, location, view, and more. If the property cannot be accessed, prior MLS listings, public records, and photographs are used.
We examine comparable home sales from the date of death in nearby Westside neighborhoods—such as Cheviot Hills, Beverlywood, Sawtelle, and Rancho Park—to estimate value.
This method compares the subject property to similar sales and makes adjustments to reflect differences in features, amenities, and market conditions.
We provide a detailed, court-ready report in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)—acceptable to the IRS, courts, CPAs, and estate attorneys.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers offers:
Divorce Appraisals – Unbiased valuations for marital property division
Expert Witness Services – Legal support and in-court testimony for property disputes
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including refinancing, pre-listing, estate planning, gifting, and tax appeals
Each report is tailored to your legal or financial needs.
With over 5,000 completed appraisals, we understand the subtle but significant differences between Westside neighborhoods. Whether your property is in Little Holmby, Pico-Robertson, or Century Glen, our experience ensures accurate, defensible valuations.
We offer:
5–7 business day turnaround
48-hour rush service available upon inspection
Friendly, responsive service with clear communication
Certified reports accepted by the IRS, courts, and financial institutions
Yes. Retrospective appraisals can be completed months or even years later using historical data.
Yes. It establishes the stepped-up basis and supports required filings—even if the property won’t be sold right away.
No. The assessor’s value is for tax billing only and is not accepted by the IRS or probate courts. A certified appraisal is required.
If you're managing an estate, probate, or trust in Westside Los Angeles, let Pacific Home Appraisers provide the clarity, professionalism, and experience you need.
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Tags: #WestsideLosAngelesAppraiser #DateOfDeathAppraisal #EstateValuation #ProbateAppraisal #TrustAppraisal #RetrospectiveAppraisal #DivorceAppraisal #ExpertWitnessAppraiser #RealEstateAppraisalWestsideLA #PacificHomeAppraisers