When a loved one passes away, determining the value of their real estate holdings is an essential step in settling the estate. In a historically rich and architecturally diverse market like Pasadena, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is critical for probate court filings, IRS estate tax reporting, trust administration, and the equitable distribution of assets. Whether you're an executor, attorney, trustee, or family member, a professionally prepared retrospective appraisal ensures legal compliance, financial accuracy, and peace of mind.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we specialize in delivering certified, court-ready Date of Death Appraisals in Pasadena. With over 5,000 appraisal assignments completed since 2005, we are trusted by legal and financial professionals for our precision, discretion, and deep understanding of Pasadena’s unique real estate landscape.
A Date of Death Appraisal (also known as a retrospective appraisal) determines the fair market value of a property based on market conditions at the time of the decedent’s passing, not current values. This appraisal is used to support legal filings, tax returns, and estate settlement procedures.
It 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 real property among heirs
A certified appraisal ensures the estate is valued correctly and reduces the risk of disputes, tax issues, or court delays.
Pasadena offers a wide range of property types, from historic Craftsman homes in Bungalow Heaven and estates in Linda Vista, to condos in South Lake and luxury view properties in Hastings Ranch. Architectural pedigree, proximity to landmarks like The Rose Bowl, Caltech, and Old Town Pasadena, and zoning can significantly influence property values.
A generalized or out-of-area appraisal may result in:
Misvaluation of high-value or historic properties
Delays in probate or trust proceedings
IRS audit exposure
Family or beneficiary disputes
Pacific Home Appraisers brings deep knowledge of Pasadena’s historic districts, luxury enclaves, and transitional neighborhoods to every appraisal, ensuring accuracy and full compliance.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or estate administrator
A trustee managing inherited real estate
A probate attorney or CPA handling estate filings
A beneficiary needing property valuation for inheritance
A fiduciary responsible for managing the estate’s compliance
A family member working to settle the estate fairly
Our certified reports are accepted by California probate courts, the IRS, and financial institutions.
We follow a professional, efficient, and respectful process tailored to the sensitive nature of estate matters.
Step One – Initial consultation We gather property information, confirm the date of death, and determine your appraisal needs.
Step Two – On-site inspection Our licensed appraiser visits the property, documenting the condition, size, features, and upgrades. Exterior-only inspections are available when needed.
Step Three – Historical market analysis Using comparable sales and market conditions from the date of death, we determine the fair market value with precision and compliance in mind.
Step Four – Certified report delivery You’ll receive a complete, court- and IRS-ready report within five to seven business days. Rush service within 48 hours is available upon request.
With nearly two decades of experience, Pacific Home Appraisers is known for delivering accurate, timely, and court-compliant appraisal reports across Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley.
We provide:
Certified appraisals for probate, IRS, and estate filings
Local expertise in Pasadena’s historic and luxury home markets
Defensible, detailed reports accepted by courts and legal professionals
Responsive, respectful communication with attorneys and fiduciaries
Fast turnaround and rush delivery options
From million-dollar estates to single-family homes and condos, we bring insight, integrity, and accuracy to every assignment.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate in Pasadena? Yes. Probate courts require a certified appraisal to document the fair market value of the property as of the decedent’s date of death.
Can you complete the appraisal if the home has already been sold? Yes. Retrospective appraisals are based on historical data and can be completed even if the property is no longer owned by the estate.
Can I use a Zillow estimate or tax record instead? No. Only a certified appraisal by a licensed professional is accepted for probate and IRS reporting.
Do you work with attorneys, CPAs, and estate planners? Absolutely. We frequently collaborate with professionals to ensure accurate and timely reporting for estate matters.
We provide Date of Death Appraisal Services throughout Pasadena, including:
Linda Vista
Bungalow Heaven
Madison Heights
Hastings Ranch
South Lake
San Rafael Hills
Chapman Woods
Arroyo Seco
Historic Landmark Districts
Pasadena Playhouse District
From architectural icons to mid-century gems and view properties, we understand the value nuances across all of Pasadena’s neighborhoods.
If you're managing a probate or estate case in Pasadena, trust Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, accurate, and timely valuation services.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence—ensuring your estate appraisal is professionally handled, legally compliant, and locally informed.