Ojai, nestled in the foothills of Ventura County, is known for its artistic spirit, stunning landscapes, and one-of-a-kind real estate. From Spanish-style haciendas to private estates, vineyard properties, and rustic retreats, Ojai real estate represents not just financial value—but heritage and lifestyle. When a property owner in Ojai passes away, a certified Date of Death Appraisal becomes an essential tool for estate planning, probate proceedings, and tax filings.
If you’re an estate attorney, fiduciary, CPA, or beneficiary overseeing property in Ojai, understanding the role and importance of a Date of Death Appraisal ensures the estate is settled with fairness, accuracy, and legal compliance.
A Date of Death Appraisal determines the fair market value of real estate as of the exact date the property owner passed away. This is a retrospective appraisal, based on sales and market conditions around that time—rather than today's market.
It is required for:
Probate court documentation
IRS estate tax filing (Form 706)
Trust and fiduciary accounting
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains tax
Equitable property division among heirs
Ojai properties—especially luxury estates in East End, Arbolada, or near the Ojai Valley Inn—often exceed estate tax exemption limits. The IRS requires a USPAP-compliant certified appraisal to verify the property’s value at the time of death. Probate courts also rely on this documentation for asset validation.
When heirs inherit property, the stepped-up basis allows the taxable value to reset to its fair market value as of the decedent’s date of death. This can significantly reduce capital gains tax if the property is sold later. A certified appraisal documents this value accurately.
A Date of Death Appraisal provides a neutral, third-party opinion of value. Whether the property is sold or passed on, this ensures that all beneficiaries receive equitable treatment—especially in complex or high-value estates.
Trustees, fiduciaries, and attorneys are legally required to document property values accurately. A certified appraisal supports these duties and provides transparency for all parties involved.
Ojai’s property market is unique and includes:
Secluded luxury estates with mountain views and privacy
Historic craftsman and Spanish-style homes in downtown and Arbolada
Vineyard and equestrian estates with acreage and agricultural zoning
Mid-century homes and artist retreats
Eco-conscious homes, off-grid properties, and rustic cabins
Market value in Ojai is influenced by lot size, view orientation, privacy, architectural style, and neighborhood appeal. Local appraisal expertise is essential to capture these variables accurately.
A certified appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
Full interior and exterior inspection (when access is available)
Retrospective market analysis based on comparable sales near the date of death
Adjustments for condition, acreage, improvements, amenities, and location
Parcel maps, assessor data, photos, and zoning information
Final certified opinion of value in a USPAP-compliant PDF report
Our reports are accepted by probate courts, CPAs, the IRS, and legal professionals throughout California.
Estate attorneys managing probate documentation
CPAs and tax advisors filing IRS estate tax returns
Fiduciaries and trustees overseeing estate distributions
Heirs and beneficiaries evaluating inherited property
Real estate agents listing inherited homes for sale
Court-appointed administrators managing complex or contested estates
We begin by confirming the date of death, access details, the intended use of the report, and any delivery deadlines. Rush service is available upon request.
Our appraiser performs a full inspection (when accessible), documenting the layout, finishes, acreage, condition, and site features. For properties without access, we offer desktop or exterior-only appraisals using MLS and public data.
We identify and analyze similar sales in Ojai around the date of death and make value adjustments for land size, condition, privacy, view, and architectural detail.
Our standard turnaround is five to seven business days, with 48-hour expedited delivery available. Reports are delivered in secure PDF format and prepared for legal, tax, and fiduciary use.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and we frequently complete them months or years after the decedent’s passing, using historical data.
Absolutely. Our appraisals are certified and USPAP-compliant, making them valid for tax filings, probate court, and trust documentation.
Yes. We offer bundle pricing and coordinated scheduling for estates involving multiple real estate holdings.
With over 5,000 appraisals completed throughout Southern California, Pacific Home Appraisers understands the complexity and uniqueness of Ojai’s real estate market. We specialize in estate, trust, and probate appraisals—ensuring accurate, legally defensible valuations.
Experience with luxury, rural, and custom Ojai properties
Reports accepted by IRS, probate courts, attorneys, and CPAs
Certified, USPAP-compliant reports
Fast turnaround: five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush available
Discreet, responsive, and professional communication
If you're managing an estate in Ojai and require a certified Date of Death Appraisal, contact Pacific Home Appraisers today.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to schedule your appraisal or learn more.
We’re here to help you settle your estate with accuracy, professionalism, and trusted expertise.