Understanding Date of Death Appraisals and Their Importance in Calabasas
Calabasas is known for its luxury estates, gated communities, and exclusive neighborhoods such as The Oaks, Mountain View Estates, and Hidden Hills. For families navigating the emotional and legal complexities following the passing of a loved one, the real estate left behind often becomes a focal point of the estate. This is where a Date of Death Appraisal becomes an essential tool.
Whether you're a family member, estate attorney, trustee, or CPA, understanding the importance of an accurate Date of Death Appraisal in Calabasas can make a significant difference in how an estate is settled, taxed, and distributed.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a professional, certified real estate valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the exact date the property owner passed away. Unlike traditional appraisals, which reflect current market conditions, this is a retrospective valuation. It takes into account the market dynamics and comparable sales data from that specific point in time.
This type of appraisal is often required for:
Probate and trust administration
IRS estate tax filings
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains
Equitable asset distribution among heirs
When an estate exceeds the federal estate tax exemption limit, the IRS mandates a certified appraisal to verify the property’s value as of the date of death. In high-value markets like Calabasas—where luxury homes regularly exceed several million dollars—this appraisal can be vital in calculating estate taxes accurately and avoiding penalties or audits.
Heirs who inherit property receive a stepped-up basis, which is the value of the home as of the decedent’s date of death. This becomes the new cost basis for capital gains tax purposes. If the home is later sold, the capital gains tax is based on the difference between the sale price and this new, stepped-up value—minimizing tax liability for beneficiaries.
In estates with multiple heirs or beneficiaries, a Date of Death Appraisal ensures fairness in the division of property. It provides a neutral, third-party valuation that can be used to determine buyouts, property sales, or equal value exchanges.
Whether the estate is going through probate or is part of a living trust, courts, attorneys, and fiduciaries require accurate documentation of asset values. A certified appraisal satisfies this need and can prevent delays in the administration of the estate.
Calabasas is unique among Southern California cities for its combination of privacy, high-end amenities, and residential exclusivity. The community includes:
The Oaks of Calabasas – Guard-gated community with expansive custom homes
Mountain View Estates – Large luxury homes on generous lots
Hidden Hills – A gated equestrian community known for celebrity estates
Calabasas Park and Old Town Calabasas – Homes with historic charm and access to top-rated schools
Appraising properties in these neighborhoods requires specialized knowledge. Factors such as lot size, privacy, view orientation, gated access, and community amenities must all be taken into consideration to ensure an accurate and supportable valuation.
A certified Date of Death Appraisal prepared by Pacific Home Appraisers will include:
Full interior and/or exterior property inspection
Analysis of comparable sales near the date of death
Market condition evaluation specific to Calabasas neighborhoods
Adjustments for location, size, condition, upgrades, and amenities
Parcel maps, assessor records, zoning data, and detailed property photos
Final certified opinion of value as of the decedent’s passing
PDF report that complies with USPAP standards
These reports are accepted by courts, attorneys, CPAs, and the IRS for all estate-related purposes.
Estate attorneys preparing for probate
CPAs handling IRS tax filings and stepped-up basis reports
Trustees or fiduciaries managing property in a living trust
Heirs or beneficiaries seeking documentation for asset division
Real estate professionals preparing for property sale or transfer
We begin with an initial call to confirm the intended use of the appraisal, the effective valuation date (the date of death), and any access instructions. We’ll also determine whether a full interior inspection is possible or if an exterior-only report is more appropriate.
A thorough walk-through of the property is conducted to document condition, layout, improvements, and amenities. In high-value properties common to Calabasas, this can include pools, home theaters, guesthouses, stables, and more.
We identify comparable sales that occurred close to the date of death. These sales are adjusted for differences in square footage, lot size, view, location, and finish quality.
The final certified report is delivered within five to seven business days. A 48-hour rush service is available upon request and subject to availability.
Yes. We specialize in retrospective appraisals, and it’s common to request these months or even years later. As long as we have access to market data from that date, we can complete the report.
Absolutely. Our appraisals are USPAP-compliant and fully certified, making them admissible for all legal, tax, and fiduciary purposes.
Each property requires a separate appraisal, even if located in the same community. We offer package pricing and scheduling coordination for multiple properties within the estate.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we bring over 5,000 completed appraisals and decades of combined experience in high-value real estate across Southern California. Our familiarity with the Calabasas market—its gated communities, architectural styles, zoning, and valuation trends—ensures your appraisal is accurate, timely, and court-ready.
Specialization in luxury and estate property
Deep local expertise in Calabasas neighborhoods
Reports trusted by attorneys, CPAs, fiduciaries, and courts
Standard turnaround in 5 to 7 days, with 48-hour rush available
Fully certified and USPAP-compliant
We understand the sensitivity and urgency often associated with estate matters and provide responsive, professional support throughout the process.
If you’re handling the estate of a loved one and need a certified Date of Death Appraisal in Calabasas, contact Pacific Home Appraisers for expert valuation services that meet the highest professional standards.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to schedule your appraisal or learn more about our services.
We’re here to support your estate settlement needs with accuracy, discretion, and deep market knowledge.