Settling a loved one’s estate often involves the evaluation of real property, and in a desirable area like Sherman Oaks, having an accurate appraisal is essential. A certified Date of Death Appraisal provides the fair market value of a home as of the decedent’s passing. This retrospective valuation is required for probate filings, IRS estate tax submissions, trust administration, and ensuring the equitable distribution of assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide professional, IRS-compliant Date of Death Appraisals for properties throughout Sherman Oaks. With extensive experience in the San Fernando Valley market, we deliver certified, court-ready reports trusted by attorneys, CPAs, trustees, and families navigating the estate process.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—is used to determine the value of a property on the specific date the owner passed away. This type of appraisal considers historical market conditions and comparable property sales around that date, rather than current values.
This appraisal is required for:
Probate court documentation
Estate tax filings with the IRS
Trust administration and distribution
Capital gains tax planning through step-up in basis
Heir or beneficiary asset division
A certified appraisal ensures proper legal compliance, reduces the risk of disputes, and provides clarity during an emotionally difficult time.
The Sherman Oaks real estate market is diverse, featuring everything from mid-century homes and updated ranch properties to gated estates in the hills. Neighborhoods like South of Ventura Boulevard, Royal Woods, and Hidden Woods all have distinct value factors, including lot size, school districts, architectural design, and walkability.
Relying on general market tools or inexperienced appraisers may result in:
Inaccurate estate valuation
Delays in probate proceedings
Tax reporting errors
Disagreements among heirs or trustees
Pacific Home Appraisers brings deep familiarity with Sherman Oaks, offering accurate appraisals that reflect the area's unique property characteristics and historic sales activity.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee distributing real property
A probate attorney or CPA preparing tax documentation
A family member involved in inheritance
A beneficiary requiring certified property valuation
A fiduciary managing legal estate filings
We provide certified reports that meet the requirements of courts, the IRS, and financial institutions.
Our process is professional, efficient, and tailored to meet your needs.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We review your requirements, confirm the date of death, and schedule a convenient time for the inspection.
Step Two – Property inspection Our appraiser visits the property and documents the size, condition, amenities, improvements, and location features. Exterior-only inspections can be arranged if needed.
Step Three – Historical market research We research comparable sales and analyze local market data from the time of death to deliver an accurate retrospective valuation.
Step Four – Delivery of certified report Your certified, court-ready report is delivered within five to seven business days. Rush service with 48-hour turnaround is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has completed more than 5,000 assignments, including hundreds of retrospective appraisals in Sherman Oaks and surrounding areas.
We provide:
Certified appraisals for probate, trusts, and IRS filings
In-depth local market knowledge of Sherman Oaks neighborhoods
Clear, detailed, and legally defensible reports
Professional communication and timely delivery
Rush service options for time-sensitive filings
Our commitment to quality and service ensures that every estate appraisal is handled with care, precision, and confidentiality.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Sherman Oaks Yes. Probate courts typically require a certified appraisal to document the fair market value of real estate as of the date of death.
What if the property has already been sold We can still complete a retrospective appraisal using historical data from the date of passing—even if the home has been sold since then.
Can I use a property tax assessment or online estimate No. Probate courts and the IRS require a certified appraisal from a licensed professional. Online tools and tax assessments are not legally valid.
Do you work directly with attorneys or accountants Yes. We frequently coordinate with attorneys, CPAs, and estate professionals to ensure accuracy and meet filing deadlines.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services across all Sherman Oaks neighborhoods, including:
South of Ventura Boulevard
Royal Woods
Chandler Estates
Hidden Woods
Longridge Estates
Magnolia Woods
Gated hillside and view properties
Whether the property is a traditional home, remodeled mid-century, or modern estate, we offer precise valuations tailored to the property's location and features.
If you are managing a trust, estate, or probate case involving real property in Sherman Oaks, count on Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and professional service.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you move forward with confidence—providing expert guidance and accurate valuation services during this important transition.