Settling an estate is a complex process—especially when it involves real property in a high-value community like Calabasas. Whether you’re an executor, trustee, attorney, or family member, one essential step is obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal. This valuation helps determine the fair market value of a home as of the decedent’s passing and is required for probate, estate taxes, and proper asset distribution.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide accurate, IRS-compliant Date of Death Appraisals throughout Calabasas. With extensive experience in the local luxury real estate market, our reports meet the highest professional standards for legal, financial, and personal use.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also called a retrospective appraisal—is a professional valuation that determines what a property was worth on the date an individual passed away. This differs from a current market appraisal, as it relies on historical sales data, market trends, and comparables from that specific date.
This type of appraisal is essential for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax returns
Trust administration
Inheritance planning and asset distribution
Establishing step-up in basis for capital gains taxes
Accurate valuation at this stage can prevent tax overpayments, legal disputes, and delays in the estate settlement process.
Calabasas is known for its upscale gated communities, custom estates, and expansive residential properties. Neighborhoods like The Oaks, Hidden Hills, and Mountain View Estates have unique architectural styles, pricing ranges, and luxury features that influence value.
Generic appraisers or automated tools often overlook the nuances of this area. An inaccurate valuation could lead to:
Delays in probate or trust administration
Disagreements between beneficiaries
Incorrect tax filings
Increased audit risk with the IRS
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we bring years of expertise and deep familiarity with Calabasas real estate, allowing us to deliver highly accurate and defensible Date of Death Appraisal Reports.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee responsible for distributing real property
A probate attorney or CPA assisting with estate taxes
A family member handling inheritance matters
A beneficiary requiring documentation for financial planning
A fiduciary ensuring compliance with legal requirements
Whether the property is being retained, transferred, or sold, a certified appraisal ensures the estate is managed accurately and fairly.
We offer a streamlined and professional process from initial contact to final delivery.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We begin with a discussion to gather information about the property and the required retrospective valuation date. We then schedule the inspection.
Step Two – Property inspection We conduct a thorough on-site inspection or, if needed, an exterior-only review. Our appraisers assess condition, location, features, and upgrades.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research comparable sales, historical market conditions, and apply professional adjustments based on the property’s specifics and the date of death.
Step Four – Certified appraisal delivery You receive a detailed, court-ready report within five to seven business days. For urgent cases, 48-hour rush delivery is available after inspection.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has completed more than 5,000 residential assignments across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Our expertise in Calabasas real estate, including luxury and gated communities, makes us a trusted choice for families and legal professionals.
We offer:
Certified, court- and IRS-compliant reports
Experience in retrospective and estate appraisals
Deep knowledge of Calabasas’ luxury housing market
Fast turnaround times with optional rush service
Professional communication and reliable documentation
We understand that estate matters are time-sensitive and emotionally delicate. Our approach is always respectful, efficient, and accurate.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate Yes. Probate courts typically require a certified appraisal to establish property value as of the date of death.
What if the home has already sold A retrospective appraisal can still be completed, even after the property is sold. We use sales data from the required valuation date.
Can I use a Zillow estimate or tax assessment No. Online estimates and tax assessments are not acceptable for legal or IRS use. Only a certified appraisal meets these requirements.
Can you work with my attorney or accountant Yes. We frequently coordinate with legal and financial professionals to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant reporting.
We offer Date of Death Appraisal Services in all neighborhoods of Calabasas, including:
The Oaks
Mountain View Estates
Calabasas Park Estates
Mulholland Heights
Saratoga Ranch
Classic Calabasas
Gated and hillside communities throughout the city
No matter the property size or location, we provide high-quality, professional valuations that support your estate's legal and financial needs.
If you are handling an estate or trust involving real property in Calabasas, contact Pacific Home Appraisers for certified and timely appraisal services. We ensure your valuation is accurate, compliant, and professionally documented.
Call us today – 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you move forward with confidence—knowing your appraisal is handled with the highest level of care and precision.