Nestled just north of Pasadena at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains, Altadena is known for its rich history, architectural character, and spacious residential lots. From historic craftsman homes and mid-century ranches to hillside estates with expansive views, real estate in Altadena plays a major role in the financial structure of many estates. When a homeowner in Altadena passes away, their property often represents a significant portion of their legacy—and a certified Date of Death Appraisal becomes essential for legal, tax, and fiduciary purposes.
Whether you’re an estate attorney, trustee, CPA, or family member managing a loved one’s estate, understanding the role of a Date of Death Appraisal in Altadena can help ensure a smooth, fair, and compliant estate settlement process.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a certified real estate valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away. This is a retrospective appraisal, which means the valuation is based on the real estate market conditions and comparable sales that occurred near the date of death—not today’s market.
This type of appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax returns (Form 706)
Trust administration and fiduciary accounting
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains tax
Equitable distribution of real estate among heirs or beneficiaries
Altadena real estate values—especially for homes near Christmas Tree Lane, in the Meadows, or on large hillside lots—can exceed estate tax exemption limits. When an estate’s value triggers tax reporting obligations, the IRS requires a certified USPAP-compliant appraisal to verify the property’s value as of the date of death. A professional appraisal minimizes risk of audit, underreporting, or legal delays.
A stepped-up basis allows the value of inherited real estate to be adjusted to its fair market value on the date of death. This step significantly reduces capital gains liability when the property is sold. A certified appraisal documents this value and protects heirs during future transactions.
A neutral, third-party appraisal provides an objective value that helps family members and fiduciaries distribute estate assets fairly. Whether the property is sold, kept, or transferred between heirs, a Date of Death Appraisal supports transparency and avoids conflict.
Executors, trustees, and legal professionals are required to account for estate assets accurately. A certified appraisal ensures compliance with probate court standards, IRS guidelines, and trust administration rules.
Altadena offers a wide variety of residential properties, including:
Craftsman and Spanish-style homes near Mariposa Street and Altadena Drive
Mid-century ranches and bungalows in quiet tree-lined neighborhoods
View homes and hillside estates with privacy and large lots
Restored historic properties with architectural significance
Multi-acre residential lots and unique zoning configurations
Factors like lot size, condition, location, proximity to hiking trails and parks, and views significantly affect value. A local appraiser with experience in Altadena is essential for capturing these nuances accurately.
A certified appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
A full interior and exterior property inspection (when accessible)
Market analysis using comparable sales from the date of death
Adjustments for location, square footage, condition, land size, and amenities
Parcel maps, assessor records, photographs, and zoning verification
A final certified opinion of value in a USPAP-compliant PDF report
These reports are accepted by the IRS, probate courts, attorneys, CPAs, and estate fiduciaries throughout California.
Estate attorneys preparing probate court filings
CPAs and tax professionals completing IRS Form 706
Trustees and fiduciaries overseeing estate or trust distributions
Heirs and beneficiaries managing inherited property
Real estate agents preparing homes for sale as part of an estate
Court-appointed representatives handling contested or high-value estates
We begin with a consultation to confirm the date of death, appraisal purpose, property details, and any deadlines. We also offer rush delivery services for urgent filings.
Our certified appraiser conducts a thorough inspection of the property, evaluating condition, layout, upgrades, land features, and any unique characteristics. If interior access is not possible, we offer desktop or exterior-only appraisal options using MLS, public data, and historical records.
We identify and analyze similar property sales that closed around the date of death. Adjustments are made to reflect differences in lot size, home condition, amenities, and view orientation.
Our standard turnaround time is five to seven business days, with 48-hour expedited service available. Reports are delivered securely in PDF format and ready for legal, tax, and court use.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and we often complete them long after the date of death using accurate historical data.
Absolutely. All reports are USPAP-compliant and certified, meeting the legal and documentation standards required by probate courts and the IRS.
We can appraise multiple properties within the same estate. Bundle pricing and coordinated scheduling are available for multi-property assignments.
With over 5,000 certified appraisals completed across Los Angeles County, Pacific Home Appraisers brings unmatched experience and local knowledge to every estate assignment. We understand Altadena’s architectural styles, zoning differences, and unique hillside market, ensuring accurate and reliable valuations.
Deep expertise in Altadena’s historic and residential properties
Trusted by IRS, probate courts, attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries
Certified, USPAP-compliant appraisals that meet all legal standards
Fast delivery: five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush available
Discreet, responsive, and highly professional service
If you're managing an estate in Altadena and require a certified Date of Death Appraisal, contact Pacific Home Appraisers today.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to learn more or schedule your appraisal.
We’re here to provide accurate, timely, and legally sound valuation support during every step of the estate process.