Settling an estate in a luxury community like Hidden Hills requires careful attention to detail—especially when real estate is involved. If you are an executor, trustee, attorney, or beneficiary, obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential. This type of appraisal determines the fair market value of a home as of the decedent’s passing and is required for probate, estate tax reporting, trust management, and fair distribution of assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we specialize in providing discreet, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals throughout Hidden Hills. With a deep understanding of the local high-end real estate market, we deliver accurate and fully compliant reports for legal, tax, and family estate purposes.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a retrospective valuation that determines a property’s fair market value on the date the owner passed away. Unlike a current appraisal, it uses historic data, comparable sales, and local market conditions from that specific date.
This type of appraisal is required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax returns
Trust administration and dissolution
Inheritance and asset division
Step-up in basis for capital gains tax purposes
An accurate appraisal can help avoid overpayment of taxes, prevent legal complications, and ensure all parties receive fair treatment.
Hidden Hills is one of the most exclusive residential communities in Southern California, featuring custom-built estates, large equestrian lots, and gated privacy. Homes in this area often exceed several million dollars in value and include one-of-a-kind features that require specialized valuation expertise.
An inaccurate appraisal from a generalist or an online tool may result in:
Incorrect tax liability
Legal disputes among heirs
IRS challenges or audits
Delays in probate or trust settlements
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we have extensive experience appraising luxury estates in Hidden Hills. We understand the nuances of custom construction, lot value, privacy premiums, and historic market data in this unique community.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor of a will or estate
A trustee managing or dissolving a trust
A probate attorney handling legal filings
A CPA or tax advisor preparing estate returns
A family member or beneficiary involved in inheritance
A fiduciary or estate planner ensuring regulatory compliance
A certified appraisal ensures transparency, accuracy, and legal protection for all parties involved.
Our process is professional, confidential, and tailored to the needs of high-net-worth estates.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We begin by reviewing property details and confirming the date of death. We then schedule a discreet inspection at your convenience.
Step Two – On-site property inspection We perform a detailed inspection of the interior and exterior of the home, or exterior-only when necessary. All property features, finishes, and upgrades are documented.
Step Three – Market research and valuation We analyze comparable sales from the relevant time period and adjust based on the property's unique features and local market trends as of the valuation date.
Step Four – Report delivery You receive a certified, court-ready appraisal report within five to seven business days. For time-sensitive matters, rush delivery is available within 48 hours of the inspection.
With over 5,000 appraisals completed since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers is a trusted partner for estate professionals and families in Hidden Hills and beyond.
Our advantages include:
Certification and compliance for IRS and probate filings
Discreet, accurate valuations for luxury estates
Deep knowledge of Hidden Hills real estate market
Experience with gated, equestrian, and hillside properties
Timely delivery with expedited options available
Clear, defensible reporting accepted by courts and tax authorities
We treat every estate assignment with sensitivity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate Yes. Probate courts generally require a certified appraisal for all real estate holdings as of the date of death.
Can you do a retrospective appraisal if the home has already been sold Yes. We use historical market data to determine the property’s fair market value as of the date of death, even if the property has changed ownership.
Can I rely on a Zillow estimate or property tax assessment No. Only a certified appraisal from a licensed professional meets legal and IRS standards. Online estimates and tax records are not acceptable.
Do you work directly with attorneys or CPAs Yes. We regularly coordinate with estate attorneys, fiduciaries, and tax professionals to provide compliant and timely reports.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout the Hidden Hills gated community, including:
Luxury custom estates
Equestrian properties
Multi-acre compounds
Hillside residences
New construction and remodeled homes
Whether the property is contemporary, traditional, or uniquely built, we bring the same level of care and precision to every assignment.
If you are managing an estate or trust in Hidden Hills, count on Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, discreet, and timely valuation services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you move forward with clarity—knowing your appraisal is handled with professionalism, expertise, and care.