Nestled in Ventura County, Fillmore is a charming and historic community known for its classic homes, agricultural roots, and peaceful small-town atmosphere. Whether it’s a ranch-style property on acreage or a vintage craftsman in the city center, real estate in Fillmore often represents a significant portion of a homeowner’s estate. When someone passes away, a certified Date of Death Appraisal becomes an essential part of settling the estate—ensuring that the value of real property is documented accurately for legal and tax purposes.
If you are an estate attorney, fiduciary, CPA, or family member handling an estate in Fillmore, understanding the role and importance of a Date of Death Appraisal can help ensure a smooth and legally compliant transition of property.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a certified valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away. This is known as a retrospective appraisal, which relies on historical market data and comparable property sales from the time of death rather than current market conditions.
This appraisal is commonly used for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax submissions (Form 706)
Trust and fiduciary accountings
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains
Equitable distribution of real estate among heirs or beneficiaries
Even in smaller communities like Fillmore, property values—especially on larger lots or rural acreage—can contribute significantly to the total estate value. If the estate exceeds the federal exemption threshold, the IRS requires a USPAP-compliant appraisal to support the value of real estate. A certified appraisal ensures accurate reporting and reduces the risk of legal disputes or audits.
When a beneficiary inherits a property, they receive a stepped-up basis, meaning the tax value is adjusted to the property’s market value at the date of death. This greatly reduces capital gains tax if the property is sold. A Date of Death Appraisal is crucial for documenting this adjusted value.
In estates with multiple heirs, a neutral, third-party appraisal ensures that all parties receive a fair and accurate valuation. Whether the property is retained, sold, or transferred, an appraisal provides the basis for equitable decisions.
Executors, trustees, and attorneys have a legal duty to report accurate asset values. A certified Date of Death Appraisal fulfills fiduciary obligations and is accepted by courts and tax authorities.
Fillmore’s real estate is characterized by:
Ranch homes and small agricultural properties with large lots
Craftsman and traditional-style homes in the city’s historic core
Newer developments in residential communities near Sespe Creek
Custom rural properties with barns, workshops, or guest houses
Investment or rental properties on quiet residential streets
Market values in Fillmore are influenced by land use, zoning, lot size, condition, and proximity to the town center or farmland. A local expert appraiser is essential for accurately assessing value in this rural-urban hybrid market.
A certified appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
Full interior and exterior inspection (when access is available)
Historical market analysis using comparable sales from the date of death
Adjustments for square footage, condition, amenities, location, and land size
Parcel maps, zoning details, assessor records, and high-resolution photos
A final certified opinion of value in a USPAP-compliant PDF report
Reports are accepted by probate courts, attorneys, the IRS, CPAs, and trustees throughout California.
Estate attorneys preparing probate filings
CPAs and tax professionals completing IRS Form 706
Trustees and fiduciaries distributing estate assets
Heirs and beneficiaries seeking property valuation
Real estate professionals preparing inherited properties for sale
Court-appointed administrators resolving contested or complex estates
We begin by confirming the date of death, the purpose of the appraisal, property details, and any required deadlines. Rush delivery service is available upon request.
Our certified appraiser inspects the home and surrounding land (if accessible), documenting layout, condition, land use, structures, and features. If access is not possible, we offer desktop or exterior-only appraisal options using MLS data, maps, and public records.
We identify and evaluate comparable sales from the Fillmore area during the relevant time period. Adjustments are made for differences in home size, lot size, outbuildings, upgrades, and location.
Reports are typically delivered within five to seven business days, with 48-hour expedited service available. All reports are delivered in secure PDF format and are formatted for legal, fiduciary, and tax use.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and they can be completed months or years after the date of death using historical data.
Absolutely. Our reports are USPAP-compliant and certified, making them legally valid for probate, trust, and tax filings.
Yes. We offer bundle pricing and coordinated scheduling for estates with more than one property.
With over 5,000 certified appraisals completed across Southern California, Pacific Home Appraisers is trusted by legal and financial professionals for accurate, reliable, and timely estate valuations. We understand Fillmore’s local zoning, rural nuances, and neighborhood trends, delivering appraisals that stand up to legal and financial scrutiny.
Experience with rural, residential, and agricultural properties in Fillmore
Reports accepted by IRS, probate courts, attorneys, and CPAs
Certified, USPAP-compliant appraisals for legal and financial needs
Timely delivery: five to seven business days, with rush service available
Personalized, professional, and discreet service
If you're managing an estate and require a certified Date of Death Appraisal in Fillmore, contact Pacific Home Appraisers today.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to learn more or schedule your appraisal.
We’re here to provide accuracy, transparency, and peace of mind throughout your estate administration journey.