Settling the estate of a loved one is a sensitive and often complex process, especially when real estate is involved. In a coastal and diverse market like Ventura, obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal is a critical step for probate court filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and asset distribution. Whether you're an executor, trustee, attorney, or family member, a professionally prepared retrospective valuation ensures compliance, fairness, and peace of mind.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we specialize in delivering certified, timely, and court-ready Date of Death Appraisals throughout Ventura. With over 5,000 appraisals completed since 2005, our team brings precision, local expertise, and professionalism to every assignment.
A Date of Death Appraisal—also referred to as a retrospective appraisal—determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the property owner passed away. This type of appraisal uses historical market data and comparable sales that occurred around that date, not current values.
This appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax filings
Trust and inheritance distribution
Capital gains step-up in basis calculations
Equitable division of estate assets
A certified appraisal ensures accurate reporting and reduces the risk of legal complications or tax disputes.
Ventura features a wide range of neighborhoods—from hillside homes in Ondulando and coastal properties in Pierpont Beach to inland communities like East Ventura and Midtown. Property values in this region are influenced by ocean views, proximity to the beach, lot size, age, and architecture.
Generic estimates or out-of-area appraisers can produce inaccurate results that lead to:
Probate delays
IRS audit exposure
Disputes between heirs or beneficiaries
Over- or underreporting of estate value
Pacific Home Appraisers understands the nuances of Ventura’s local market and delivers valuation reports that reflect real, supportable market conditions.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or estate administrator
A trustee overseeing real property in a trust
A CPA or probate attorney preparing legal or tax filings
A beneficiary requiring value documentation
A fiduciary responsible for estate compliance
A family member looking to ensure a smooth estate process
Our certified reports are accepted by probate courts, the IRS, and financial institutions.
We provide a professional and efficient process to meet legal requirements and time-sensitive estate deadlines.
Step One – Initial consultation and scheduling We gather details about the property and confirm the required date of death. We then schedule a prompt inspection.
Step Two – Property inspection Our licensed appraiser conducts a full or exterior-only inspection, documenting the condition, size, improvements, and market-relevant features.
Step Three – Historical market analysis We research comparable property sales and market conditions from the required timeframe to establish fair market value.
Step Four – Delivery of certified report Your certified, court-ready appraisal report is delivered within five to seven business days. Rush delivery within 48 hours is available upon request.
With nearly two decades of experience and a deep understanding of Ventura’s real estate landscape, Pacific Home Appraisers is a trusted partner for estate professionals and families.
We provide:
Certified, legally compliant reports for probate and estate filings
Local knowledge of Ventura’s coastal and inland property markets
Reliable service with rush turnaround available
Friendly, professional communication with attorneys, CPAs, and heirs
Accurate, defensible valuations tailored to your specific needs
We handle every appraisal with sensitivity, precision, and respect for your timeline and circumstances.
Do I need a Date of Death Appraisal for probate in Ventura? Yes. Probate courts typically require a certified appraisal to document the fair market value of real estate as of the date of death.
Can you complete a Date of Death Appraisal if the property has been sold? Yes. A retrospective appraisal is based on the market data from the date of death, regardless of later ownership or sale.
Are online estimates or tax assessments acceptable? No. Courts and the IRS require certified appraisals from licensed professionals. Online estimates are not accepted.
Do you work with estate attorneys and accountants? Yes. We frequently coordinate with legal and tax professionals to ensure seamless filing and reporting.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services across all neighborhoods in Ventura, including:
Pierpont Beach
Ventura Keys
Ondulando
East Ventura
Midtown
Downtown Ventura
Clearpoint
Hidden Valley and adjacent hillside communities
Whether the property is a coastal bungalow, custom estate, or hillside view home, we offer precise and localized valuations you can trust.
If you are handling a probate or estate matter in Ventura, trust 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 complete this critical step with clarity, professionalism, and expert valuation support.