Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Fillmore
When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can be both emotionally challenging and legally complex. A key part of this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the decedent passed away. In a community like Fillmore, known for its agricultural heritage, charming residential neighborhoods, and rural properties, an accurate and certified appraisal is essential for probate, estate planning, tax filings, and the fair distribution of real estate assets.
Pacific Home Appraisers provides professional, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisals in Fillmore, helping families, attorneys, CPAs, and estate administrators navigate this important step with clarity and confidence.
A Date of Death appraisal—also called a retrospective appraisal—estimates a property's value as of the date the owner passed away. It does not reflect the current market, but instead relies on comparable sales and market data from that specific historical date.
In Fillmore, properties can include everything from modest single-family homes in town to larger ranch-style and agricultural properties. A locally informed and experienced appraiser is key to producing a credible valuation.
1. IRS and Estate Tax Filings If the estate’s value exceeds the federal exemption threshold, the IRS requires a certified appraisal for real estate included in IRS Form 706. A DOD appraisal provides defensible documentation for estate tax purposes.
2. Step-Up in Basis for Heirs A certified DOD appraisal helps establish the stepped-up basis, which adjusts the property’s value to the market rate as of the date of death. This can significantly reduce capital gains taxes when heirs sell the property.
3. Fair Division of Inherited Property If multiple beneficiaries are involved, a neutral appraisal helps ensure that the estate is divided fairly. This is especially important when one heir keeps the home while others receive monetary compensation.
4. Probate and Trust Requirements Courts in Ventura County require USPAP-compliant appraisals for probate and trust documentation. A certified Date of Death appraisal satisfies this requirement and provides clear legal support.
You will need a DOD appraisal if:
You are an executor, trustee, or estate administrator managing property in Fillmore
The property is involved in probate or trust administration
You are working with a CPA or attorney for tax filings or estate planning
The property will be sold, retained, or divided among multiple heirs
The estate is filing IRS Form 706
You need to establish a stepped-up tax basis for capital gains purposes
Even if the property will not be sold, the appraisal is still necessary to support legal and tax filings.
Property Evaluation We assess the size, location, condition, features, and land characteristics of the property. For rural properties, factors such as acreage, zoning, and agricultural use are also considered. If interior access is unavailable, we rely on historical MLS data, public records, and aerial imagery.
Historical Market Analysis We identify and analyze comparable property sales from the time of the decedent’s passing. In Fillmore, comps may include homes in the downtown area, newer developments, or nearby agricultural properties, depending on the subject property type.
Sales Comparison Approach The sales comparison method is used to adjust the value of comparable properties based on lot size, improvements, condition, and location, to estimate a fair market value as of the date of death.
Certified USPAP-Compliant Report Our reports are prepared in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, and are accepted by the IRS, probate courts, legal professionals, and financial institutions.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers offers:
Divorce Appraisals – Independent valuations for equitable property division
Expert Witness Appraisals – Defensible reports and testimony for legal disputes
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including estate planning, refinancing, pre-listing, gifting, and tax appeals
We understand the nuances of Fillmore’s residential and rural real estate markets and deliver valuation reports tailored to each client’s specific needs.
With its blend of small-town charm and rural character, Fillmore presents unique appraisal challenges. Whether you’re dealing with a historical Craftsman in town or a multi-acre farmstead, the right valuation requires a knowledgeable and detail-oriented appraiser.
With over 5,000 completed assignments, Pacific Home Appraisers provides:
Turnaround time of five to seven business days
Rush service available within forty-eight hours upon inspection
Reports accepted by courts, IRS, CPAs, and estate professionals
Clear communication and responsive service throughout the process
Can I get a Date of Death appraisal long after the owner passed away Yes. These retrospective appraisals can be performed even years after the date of death, using historical market data from the relevant period.
Do I need an appraisal if the property is not being sold Yes. A DOD appraisal is still necessary to establish a stepped-up basis and meet legal and tax requirements.
Can I use the tax assessor’s value instead No. Assessed values are used for property tax purposes and do not reflect market value. A certified appraisal is required for estate filings and IRS compliance.
If you are managing a trust, probate, or estate settlement in Fillmore, count on Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and legally compliant real estate appraisal services.
Call 818-880-1466 Email kiani105@yahoo.com Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com