Pasadena, known for its historic charm, architectural diversity, and elegant estates, is one of the most desirable residential areas in Los Angeles County. From the iconic neighborhoods of Linda Vista and Madison Heights to the tree-lined streets of Bungalow Heaven and luxurious homes near the Arroyo, Pasadena real estate holds substantial value—often forming the core of an individual's estate. When a property owner passes away, a certified Date of Death Appraisal is essential to ensure accurate estate valuation, legal compliance, and fair distribution of assets.
If you are an estate attorney, trustee, CPA, or family member managing an estate in Pasadena, understanding the purpose and process of a Date of Death Appraisal is vital to carrying out your responsibilities effectively and in accordance with legal standards.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a certified real estate valuation that establishes the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away. This is a retrospective appraisal, which uses historical data and comparable sales from the time of death, not the current market.
This type of appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax returns (Form 706)
Trust and fiduciary accounting
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains tax
Equitable asset distribution among heirs
Pasadena homes—especially in neighborhoods like Oak Knoll, South San Rafael, and San Marino-adjacent districts—can reach multi-million-dollar values. If the estate’s total worth exceeds the federal exemption threshold, a USPAP-compliant certified appraisal is required by the IRS to substantiate the property’s value. This helps prevent audit risks and ensures full tax compliance.
Heirs benefit from a stepped-up basis, which resets the taxable value of the property to its fair market value at the date of death. This can significantly reduce capital gains taxes when the property is later sold. A Date of Death Appraisal is critical for establishing this value.
A certified appraisal provides an objective valuation, helping heirs and fiduciaries divide estate assets fairly and transparently. Whether the property is to be sold, retained, or transferred among family members, a neutral appraisal supports equitable decision-making.
Trustees, attorneys, and executors are legally obligated to accurately account for estate assets. A certified appraisal that complies with USPAP guidelines fulfills probate and fiduciary standards for court and tax reporting.
Pasadena features a wide range of property types and values:
Historic estates in Orange Heights, Oak Knoll, and Langham neighborhoods
Craftsman bungalows in Bungalow Heaven and Garfield Heights
Modern luxury homes in Linda Vista and Hastings Ranch
Investment properties and duplexes near Old Town and along Colorado Boulevard
Condominiums and townhomes with proximity to shopping, schools, and cultural landmarks
Market value in Pasadena is affected by architectural style, historic preservation status, location, lot size, views, and upgrades. A local expert is essential to accurately assess value in this diverse market.
A certified appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
Full property inspection (interior and exterior, when accessible)
Retrospective sales analysis using data from the time of death
Adjustments based on condition, location, amenities, square footage, and lot size
Assessor records, parcel maps, zoning data, and high-resolution photos
A final certified opinion of value in a USPAP-compliant PDF report
These reports are accepted by probate courts, the IRS, attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries throughout California.
Estate attorneys preparing probate documentation
CPAs and financial advisors filing IRS Form 706
Trustees and fiduciaries managing estate or trust assets
Beneficiaries and heirs reviewing property for transfer or sale
Real estate agents assisting with inherited property listings
Court-appointed representatives managing contested or complex estates
We begin by confirming the effective date (date of death), intended use, property access, and any reporting deadlines. Rush service is available upon request.
Our appraiser conducts a detailed on-site evaluation to document layout, upgrades, and condition. If access is limited, we offer desktop or exterior-only appraisal options using MLS history and public records.
We evaluate sales of similar properties from the appropriate time period and apply market-based adjustments to deliver a reliable and defensible valuation.
Reports are delivered within five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush delivery available. All reports are provided in secure PDF format, ready for legal or tax use.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and we frequently complete them well after the date of death using historical market data.
Absolutely. Our reports are USPAP-compliant and certified, making them suitable for legal filings and IRS estate tax returns.
Yes. We provide individual reports for each property and offer bundle pricing for multi-property estates.
With over 5,000 appraisals completed across Southern California, Pacific Home Appraisers is trusted by attorneys, fiduciaries, and families for professional estate and trust valuation. We have deep knowledge of Pasadena’s historic, luxury, and residential markets, allowing us to provide accurate and legally defensible valuations tailored to your needs.
Extensive experience with Pasadena’s architectural and historic homes
Reports accepted by IRS, probate courts, attorneys, and CPAs
Certified, USPAP-compliant appraisals with fast, accurate results
Turnaround time: five to seven business days, with 48-hour rush delivery available
Confidential, responsive, and professional service
If you need a certified Date of Death Appraisal in Pasadena, contact Pacific Home Appraisers today.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to learn more or schedule your appraisal.
We’re here to deliver clarity, compliance, and confidence every step of the way during your estate settlement process.