Westlake Village, nestled along the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, is known for its luxury estates, gated communities, and serene lakeside properties. Whether situated in North Ranch, Westlake Island, or the hills above the golf course, real estate in Westlake Village is among the most valuable in the region. When a homeowner passes away, that property often becomes the most significant component of the estate. In these circumstances, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential for settling the estate legally, fairly, and accurately.
Whether you're a trustee, estate attorney, CPA, or family member handling a property in Westlake Village, this guide will help you understand the critical role of a Date of Death Appraisal and how it supports proper estate administration.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a certified real estate valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the exact date the property owner passed away. This is a retrospective appraisal, which means the value is based on market conditions and comparable sales from that specific date—not the current market.
This type of appraisal is required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax filings (Form 706)
Trust accounting and asset distribution
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains
Equitable division among heirs and beneficiaries
High-value homes in Westlake Village—such as lakefront estates, golf course properties, and custom residences in gated communities—can push an estate over the federal exemption threshold. When this occurs, the IRS mandates a certified Date of Death Appraisal to verify the property's value for estate tax purposes. A professional appraisal helps reduce risk of audit and ensures accurate tax reporting.
A stepped-up basis adjusts the taxable value of inherited property to its fair market value at the time of the owner’s death. This minimizes capital gains taxes when the property is sold. A certified Date of Death Appraisal provides the documentation needed to establish this new basis with clarity and accuracy.
In estates with multiple beneficiaries, a neutral, certified appraisal offers an objective basis for dividing property equitably. Whether the home is retained, sold, or transferred through a buyout, the appraisal ensures fairness and transparency.
Probate courts, attorneys, and fiduciaries are legally required to verify the value of estate assets. A USPAP-compliant appraisal meets these legal and ethical standards, helping ensure that the estate is administered properly.
Westlake Village features a diverse collection of high-value communities and home types. Some of the key neighborhoods include:
Westlake Island – Private, gated lakefront homes with docks and waterfront views
North Ranch – Custom estates, golf course frontage, and luxury hilltop properties
The Trails and Southshore Hills – Family-friendly neighborhoods with elegant architecture and cul-de-sacs
Three Springs – Larger executive homes with community amenities and access to hiking trails
Westlake Hills and First Neighborhood – Charming, established communities with consistent demand
Each of these areas has unique characteristics that affect valuation, including lake access, school districts, privacy, views, and HOA regulations. An accurate appraisal must take these variables into account.
A certified Date of Death Appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
Full interior and exterior inspection of the property (when access is granted)
Historical sales analysis based on comparable properties sold near the date of death
Adjustments for square footage, condition, location, views, amenities, and upgrades
High-resolution photos, assessor records, parcel maps, and zoning information
A final certified opinion of value delivered in a USPAP-compliant PDF report
Our reports are accepted by probate courts, the IRS, attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries throughout California.
Estate attorneys managing probate court filings
CPAs and tax advisors preparing IRS Form 706
Trustees and fiduciaries overseeing estate distribution
Heirs and beneficiaries managing inherited real estate
Real estate professionals preparing properties for sale
Court-appointed representatives in contested or complex estates
We begin with a brief consultation to confirm the effective valuation date (date of death), property details, access, and the report’s intended use. We also discuss deadlines and availability for rush service.
Our certified appraiser visits the property to document layout, condition, upgrades, and lot characteristics. For situations with limited access, we offer desktop or exterior-only appraisals using available data sources and photographs.
We research recent sales of similar properties from the same neighborhood and time period. These are adjusted for market conditions, location, size, and other variables to arrive at a reliable retrospective value.
Our standard delivery is five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush delivery available upon request. Final reports are provided in secure PDF format and ready for use by attorneys, accountants, and courts.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and we often complete them months or years after the date of passing. As long as historical data is available, we can determine a reliable valuation for the required date.
Absolutely. Our appraisals are certified and USPAP-compliant, meeting the requirements for estate tax filings, probate proceedings, and trust documentation.
Yes. If the estate includes more than one property, each must be appraised separately. We offer bundle pricing and coordinated scheduling for multi-property estates.
With more than 5,000 certified appraisals completed across Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, Pacific Home Appraisers is trusted by estate professionals and families throughout Westlake Village. Our deep understanding of the area's high-value real estate ensures accurate, court-ready valuations for any estate need.
In-depth knowledge of Westlake Village’s neighborhoods and property values
Reports accepted by IRS, courts, attorneys, and fiduciaries
Certified, USPAP-compliant appraisal reports
Fast turnaround: five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush available
Discreet, responsive, and professional service
If you’re handling an estate and need a certified Date of Death Appraisal in Westlake Village, contact Pacific Home Appraisers today.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to learn more or schedule your appraisal.
We’re here to support you with professionalism, accuracy, and peace of mind during every step of the estate settlement process.