Managing the estate of a loved one is a serious responsibility, particularly when real property is involved. In a high-value and tightly regulated market like Santa Monica, obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal is an essential step for probate, estate tax filings, and trust administration. Whether you are an executor, attorney, trustee, or beneficiary, an accurate retrospective appraisal helps ensure legal compliance and smooth asset distribution.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide professional, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals throughout Santa Monica. Our reports are trusted by attorneys, CPAs, and estate professionals, and are fully compliant with IRS and probate requirements.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away. This valuation is based on historical market conditions and sales data, rather than current pricing.
This type of appraisal is required for:
Probate court proceedings
IRS estate tax returns
Trust and estate administration
Asset division among heirs
Step-up in basis calculations for capital gains
A certified appraisal ensures your documentation is accepted by courts and tax authorities, avoiding costly errors or delays.
Santa Monica features an incredibly diverse real estate landscape, from beachfront condos and bungalows to historic craftsman homes and luxury estates in neighborhoods like North of Montana, Ocean Park, and Sunset Park. Property values can vary widely depending on proximity to the ocean, lot size, condition, and zoning.
Generic appraisers or online estimates often fall short in capturing Santa Monica’s complexity. Inaccurate valuations may lead to:
Disputes among beneficiaries
Incorrect tax filings
Probate delays or legal challenges
Increased audit risk from the IRS
Pacific Home Appraisers understands the nuances of the Santa Monica market and delivers precise, supportable reports tailored to each property’s unique characteristics.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee managing or distributing real estate
A CPA or attorney preparing tax or legal documents
A beneficiary requiring value documentation
A fiduciary ensuring compliance with legal standards
Our reports are prepared to meet the exacting requirements of probate courts, the IRS, and estate planning professionals.
Our process is efficient, confidential, and designed to meet legal deadlines.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We gather information about the property and the required retrospective date. We then schedule a convenient inspection.
Step Two – On-site property inspection We evaluate the home’s size, condition, location, amenities, and improvements. Exterior-only inspections can be arranged when needed.
Step Three – Market analysis and valuation Using comparable sales and local market data from the date of death, we apply professional adjustments and valuation standards.
Step Four – Certified report delivery Your detailed, court-ready report is delivered within five to seven business days. Rush service within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has completed more than 5,000 residential valuations throughout Los Angeles County, including numerous high-value assignments in Santa Monica.
We offer:
Certified appraisals for estate tax, probate, and trust filings
Detailed, legally defensible reports
Expertise in Santa Monica luxury, coastal, and historic properties
Fast turnaround and optional expedited delivery
Trusted service for attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries
We treat each estate with care, confidentiality, and professionalism, ensuring every report is delivered accurately and on time.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate in Santa Monica Yes. Probate courts typically require a certified appraisal to determine the fair market value of real estate on the date of death.
Can a retrospective appraisal be done if the property has already been sold Yes. We use historical data from the required date to complete the appraisal, regardless of any later transaction.
Is a Zillow estimate or tax assessment acceptable No. Only a certified appraisal prepared by a licensed professional is acceptable for legal or IRS purposes.
Can you coordinate with my legal or tax team Yes. We regularly work directly with attorneys, fiduciaries, and CPAs to meet legal and financial reporting requirements.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout Santa Monica, including:
North of Montana
Ocean Park
Sunset Park
Santa Monica Canyon
Wilshire-Montana
Mid-City
Pico District
Gated and custom coastal properties
We understand the premium factors affecting value in these areas, such as view orientation, proximity to the beach, walkability, and historic designations.
If you are managing an estate or trust in Santa Monica, rely on Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and professional appraisal services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you move forward with confidence—delivering expert valuation services tailored to the unique character of your Santa Monica property.