When a loved one passes away, determining the value of their real property is a crucial part of settling their estate. In a diverse and expansive region like Ventura County, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential for probate court filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and equitable asset distribution. Whether you're an executor, attorney, trustee, or beneficiary, having a professionally prepared retrospective valuation ensures accuracy, compliance, and peace of mind.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide timely, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals across all of Ventura County. With over 5,000 assignments completed since 2005, our reports are trusted by legal and financial professionals, as well as families managing estates during emotional and transitional times.
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 decedent passed away. This valuation uses historical market data and comparable sales specific to that date, rather than current values.
This type of appraisal is commonly required for:
Probate court proceedings
IRS estate tax submissions
Trust distribution and dissolution
Capital gains tax planning (step-up in basis)
Fair division of real property among heirs
A certified appraisal helps prevent disputes, ensures legal compliance, and provides clear documentation for attorneys, fiduciaries, and tax professionals.
Ventura County is home to a wide range of real estate—from beachfront homes in Oxnard and Ventura, to ranch estates in Somis, golf course properties in Camarillo, and suburban developments in Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and Moorpark. Each city and neighborhood has distinct features that impact property value, including school zones, ocean views, land use, and lot size.
Appraisers without local experience may provide inaccurate valuations that lead to:
IRS audit risks or probate delays
Over- or underpayment of estate taxes
Disagreements among beneficiaries
Rejection of documentation by courts or financial institutions
Pacific Home Appraisers brings deep local knowledge and proven accuracy to every Ventura County assignment.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator managing an estate
A trustee distributing real property assets
A CPA or probate attorney handling estate or tax filings
A family member or beneficiary involved in inheritance
A fiduciary or estate planner ensuring legal compliance
Our certified reports are accepted by probate courts, the IRS, and financial institutions across California.
We follow a streamlined, professional process designed to meet legal deadlines and provide clarity at every step.
Step One – Consultation and scheduling We review your needs, confirm the retrospective date, and schedule a property inspection.
Step Two – On-site inspection Our licensed appraiser evaluates the property’s condition, upgrades, size, location, and features. Exterior-only inspections are available if needed.
Step Three – Historical market analysis Using comparable sales and market data from the date of death, we calculate the fair market value based on location, quality, and historical trends.
Step Four – Report delivery We deliver a certified, court-ready appraisal within five to seven business days. Rush service within 48 hours is available upon request.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has delivered trusted, defensible appraisals throughout Ventura County. Our team understands the sensitive nature of estate matters and brings professionalism, discretion, and accuracy to every valuation.
We offer:
Certified appraisals for probate, estate tax, and trust administration
Extensive knowledge of Ventura County’s unique neighborhoods
Flexible scheduling and rush turnaround options
Reports accepted by courts, CPAs, attorneys, and the IRS
Clear, accurate documentation backed by experience
We support families, attorneys, and fiduciaries with dependable service at every step of the estate process.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Ventura County? Yes. Courts typically require a certified appraisal to determine the fair market value of real estate on the date of death.
Can you complete the appraisal if the home has been sold? Yes. A retrospective appraisal can be performed based on historical data, regardless of whether the property has been transferred or sold.
Can I use a Zillow estimate or property tax assessment? No. Probate courts and the IRS require a certified appraisal by a licensed professional. Online estimates are not sufficient for legal use.
Do you coordinate with attorneys and accountants? Absolutely. We frequently work directly with legal and financial professionals to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services in every city and unincorporated area of Ventura County, including:
Ventura
Oxnard
Camarillo
Thousand Oaks
Simi Valley
Moorpark
Santa Paula
Fillmore
Ojai
Somis
Newbury Park
Oak View
Port Hueneme
Lake Sherwood
Piru and surrounding areas
From coastal homes to ranches, hillside estates, and tract developments, we bring market-specific insight to every appraisal.
If you're handling an estate or probate matter in Ventura County, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to provide certified, timely, and accurate valuation services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you complete this important step with professionalism, clarity, and trusted valuation support—ensuring your estate complies with all legal and financial requirements.