When a loved one passes away, handling their estate involves many important steps—especially when real estate is part of the inheritance. In a prestigious coastal community like Pacific Palisades, accurate property valuation is essential. A certified Date of Death Appraisal ensures fair market value is properly documented as of the decedent’s passing, which is critical for probate, IRS estate filings, and the fair distribution of assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide discreet, accurate, and fully compliant Date of Death Appraisals for properties across Pacific Palisades. Our team specializes in luxury coastal and hillside real estate and delivers court-ready reports trusted by attorneys, CPAs, and estate professionals.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—determines the fair market value of a property on the date the property owner passed away. This valuation is based on historical market data, not today’s pricing, and is necessary to meet legal and tax requirements.
This appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax returns
Trust administration
Step-up in basis for capital gains planning
Equitable distribution of inherited property
An accurate appraisal protects all parties involved and ensures the estate complies with local and federal regulations.
Pacific Palisades features a wide variety of luxury homes—ranging from ocean-view estates in The Riviera and Castellammare to architectural hillside residences and properties in gated communities. Each neighborhood carries distinct value drivers such as proximity to the ocean, view quality, privacy, lot size, and architectural significance.
Working with a general appraiser or relying on automated valuations can lead to:
Incorrect estate tax assessments
Legal disputes between heirs
IRS challenges or audits
Delays in probate or trust administration
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we bring deep experience and market knowledge of Pacific Palisades. We provide accurate, supportable valuations based on the unique features and market conditions of each property.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator managing an estate
A trustee overseeing the distribution of real property
A CPA or estate attorney preparing tax documents
A beneficiary requiring valuation for financial purposes
A fiduciary ensuring proper documentation
A family member involved in property settlement
Our certified reports are accepted by the IRS, probate courts, and financial institutions, making them essential for a smooth and compliant process.
We follow a streamlined and professional process designed to meet estate timelines and legal expectations.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We gather information about the property and confirm the date of death. We then schedule the appraisal inspection at a convenient time.
Step Two – Property inspection Our appraiser visits the property to document its features, size, condition, location, views, and overall market appeal. For limited-access situations, an exterior-only appraisal may be arranged.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research and analyze comparable sales and market data from the time of death, applying adjustments based on property-specific features and historical conditions.
Step Four – Report delivery You receive a certified, court-ready report within five to seven business days. Rush delivery within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has completed over 5,000 certified appraisals across Los Angeles County. Our specialized experience in Pacific Palisades real estate allows us to deliver accurate, defensible valuations for even the most complex estates.
We offer:
Certified reports accepted by courts, CPAs, and the IRS
Expertise in coastal and hillside luxury real estate
Fast turnaround with 48-hour rush service available
Trusted by attorneys, trustees, and fiduciaries
Clear, responsive communication and professional discretion
We understand the emotional and legal sensitivity of estate matters and provide respectful, timely service with attention to every detail.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate Yes. Probate courts and estate attorneys typically require a certified appraisal for any real property included in the estate.
Can you appraise a home that has already been sold Yes. We perform retrospective appraisals using data and market conditions from the date of death—even if the property has since been transferred or sold.
Are online estimates or tax assessments valid No. Online values and assessor data are not accepted by courts or the IRS. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed appraiser is legally valid.
Can you work with my attorney or tax advisor Yes. We frequently coordinate directly with legal and financial professionals to meet all estate deadlines and reporting standards.
We offer Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout Pacific Palisades, including:
The Riviera
Huntington Palisades
Castellammare
Palisades Highlands
Rustic Canyon
Marquez Knolls
Alphabet Streets
Sunset Mesa and surrounding hillside neighborhoods
We provide specialized service for single-family homes, luxury estates, view properties, and architect-designed residences.
If you are managing a trust, probate case, or estate settlement involving real property in Pacific Palisades, contact Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, professional, and timely appraisal services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us provide the clarity and support you need with precision, expertise, and care during this important time.