When a loved one passes away, managing their estate involves legal, financial, and emotional responsibilities. One of the most critical steps—especially when real estate is involved—is obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal. For properties located in Van Nuys, this appraisal ensures the home is valued accurately as of the decedent’s passing, and it’s a requirement for probate, IRS filings, and trust administration.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide detailed, timely, and legally compliant Date of Death Appraisals throughout Van Nuys. Our certified reports are accepted by courts, tax professionals, and estate attorneys, and are tailored to meet your specific needs with accuracy and professionalism.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—establishes the fair market value of a property as of the date the property owner passed away. This valuation is based on historical market data and comparable sales during that time, not current market conditions.
This type of appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax reporting
Trust and estate settlement
Step-up in basis for capital gains tax purposes
Fair distribution among heirs and beneficiaries
Obtaining a certified appraisal helps prevent delays, disputes, and inaccuracies in legal and financial documents.
Van Nuys is one of the most diverse and centrally located neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley, with a mix of single-family homes, multi-family properties, townhomes, and commercial/residential hybrids. Neighborhoods vary widely in terms of architecture, condition, and pricing trends. Areas like Mid-Valley, Lake Balboa-adjacent, and Valley Glen-bordering sections can each show very different market dynamics.
Using an appraiser unfamiliar with Van Nuys could lead to:
Over- or under-valuation of the estate
Disputes among beneficiaries
Delays in probate or trust closure
Increased scrutiny from the IRS
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we understand the nuances of the Van Nuys housing market and provide detailed, property-specific analysis based on local historical sales and valuation criteria.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or estate administrator
A trustee handling property in a family trust
A CPA or probate attorney filing estate tax forms
A beneficiary requiring accurate valuation documentation
A fiduciary managing real estate assets
A family member seeking clarity during the estate settlement process
Our appraisals are certified, legally compliant, and formatted to satisfy both probate court and IRS expectations.
We offer a structured, professional process tailored to your legal and time-sensitive requirements.
Step One – Initial consultation and scheduling We confirm the necessary details, including the date of death, and schedule an on-site property inspection.
Step Two – On-site property inspection Our licensed appraiser evaluates the property’s condition, improvements, size, and location. Exterior-only inspections are available when appropriate.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We use sales data from the date of death to determine fair market value. Adjustments are made based on condition, lot characteristics, upgrades, and neighborhood trends at the time.
Step Four – Report delivery You’ll receive a certified, court-ready appraisal report within five to seven business days. Rush service with 48-hour turnaround is available upon request.
With over 5,000 appraisal assignments completed since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers is a trusted source for Date of Death Appraisals in Van Nuys and throughout the greater Los Angeles area.
We offer:
Certified reports for probate, trust, and IRS compliance
Local knowledge of Van Nuys property values and zoning
Reliable turnarounds with rush options available
Professional communication with attorneys, fiduciaries, and heirs
Discreet and respectful service during sensitive times
We are committed to accuracy, efficiency, and supporting families through each step of the estate settlement process.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate in Van Nuys? Yes. Most probate courts require a certified appraisal for real property assets as of the date of death.
Can I still get a Date of Death Appraisal if the home was already sold? Yes. We conduct retrospective appraisals using historical data from the date of death, regardless of subsequent sales activity.
Are Zillow estimates or property tax assessments acceptable? No. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed professional is accepted for legal or IRS filings.
Can you work directly with my attorney or tax preparer? Yes. We regularly coordinate with legal and financial professionals to ensure smooth and accurate filings.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services across all neighborhoods of Van Nuys, including:
Mid-Valley
Valley Glen border
Lake Balboa adjacent
Chisholm Estates
Gated or hillside residential zones
Classic residential and multi-family properties
Whether the property is a single-family residence, duplex, or small income property, we have the local knowledge and experience to deliver an accurate, certified appraisal.
If you are managing an estate or probate case in Van Nuys, turn to Pacific Home Appraisers for professional, certified, and timely appraisal services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you complete this important task with clarity, confidence, and respect—ensuring every legal and financial detail is handled properly.