Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – West Hollywood
Managing the estate of a loved one after their passing involves several legal and financial obligations. One of the most important steps in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the market value of real property as of the date the decedent passed away. In a high-demand real estate market like West Hollywood, where home values are influenced by location, architecture, and cultural appeal, a certified DOD appraisal is critical for estate tax filings, probate court requirements, and fair distribution of assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we offer certified, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisals throughout West Hollywood, delivering accurate and timely reports trusted by attorneys, CPAs, estate administrators, and families.
A Date of Death appraisal, or retrospective appraisal, provides a professional estimate of a property’s market value based on real estate market conditions at the time of the owner’s passing. It uses historical sales data from that specific time period to generate an accurate and legally acceptable valuation.
In a diverse and fast-moving market like West Hollywood—ranging from iconic single-family homes to sleek condo developments near the Sunset Strip—working with a knowledgeable local appraiser is key to delivering a supportable and defensible valuation.
If an estate exceeds the federal exemption threshold, a certified DOD appraisal is required for IRS reporting. It ensures compliance and provides necessary documentation for Form 706 (Estate Tax Return).
A DOD appraisal helps establish the stepped-up basis, which adjusts the property’s value to its market value at the time of death. This helps reduce capital gains taxes if the property is later sold by heirs.
When an estate has multiple beneficiaries, a neutral, third-party valuation is essential to divide assets fairly and minimize disputes—especially when one party wishes to retain the home while others receive financial compensation.
Los Angeles County probate courts require a USPAP-compliant appraisal to determine real estate values for estate accounting and legal proceedings. A certified DOD appraisal supports this requirement.
You’ll need a DOD appraisal if:
You are the executor, administrator, or trustee of an estate
The property is included in a trust or probate case
You’re working with a CPA or estate attorney for tax reporting
The property is being transferred, retained, or sold
You’re preparing IRS Form 706 for estate tax purposes
Multiple heirs are involved and need a fair valuation
We review the property’s size, location, upgrades, amenities, condition, and unique features. If the property cannot be accessed, we use MLS data, prior listings, aerial imagery, and public records to reconstruct its profile.
We analyze comparable sales from around the date of death. In West Hollywood, these comps may come from areas like Norma Triangle, West Hollywood West, Sunset Strip, or Melrose District.
This standard method adjusts for differences between the subject property and comparable sales to determine an accurate valuation.
We deliver a Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)-compliant report that is accepted by probate courts, the IRS, financial institutions, and attorneys.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers provides:
Divorce Appraisals – Independent and accurate valuations for marital asset division
Expert Witness Services – Defensible reports and testimony for legal proceedings
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including pre-listing, refinancing, trust planning, gifting, and property tax appeals
Each appraisal is crafted with precision, professionalism, and purpose.
From architectural homes in the Design District to condos along Fountain Ave, West Hollywood properties are varied, high-value, and design-forward. With over 5,000 completed appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers understands the nuances of this market and provides accurate, defensible valuations every time.
We offer:
Turnaround time of 5–7 business days
Rush delivery within 48 hours available upon inspection
Clear communication with families, attorneys, and accountants
Fully certified reports accepted by IRS, probate courts, and legal professionals
Yes. DOD appraisals are retrospective and can be completed months or years later using market data from the correct date.
Yes. It is needed to establish the stepped-up basis and fulfill legal and tax obligations.
No. Assessed values are for property taxes and are not accepted by courts or the IRS. A certified, USPAP-compliant appraisal is required.
If you're managing a trust, probate, or estate involving real property in West Hollywood, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to provide certified, timely, and accurate valuation services.
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
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