Tarzana, located in the western San Fernando Valley, is known for its tranquil neighborhoods, gated estates, and custom homes perched in the hills. With a rich blend of luxury properties and classic suburban charm, real estate in Tarzana often comprises a substantial portion of an individual’s estate. When a homeowner passes away, obtaining a Date of Death Appraisal becomes a necessary legal and financial step to ensure accurate valuation of real property for tax reporting, probate, and estate distribution.
This guide outlines the importance of Date of Death Appraisals in Tarzana, the process involved, and how working with a certified local appraiser can support a smooth estate settlement.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a certified real estate valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away. Unlike a traditional appraisal conducted for sales or refinancing, this is a retrospective appraisal—the valuation reflects the property’s value at a specific past date based on comparable sales and market conditions at that time.
This appraisal is often required for:
Probate court filings
IRS estate tax documentation (Form 706)
Trust administration
Establishing a stepped-up basis for capital gains tax
Equitable distribution of assets among heirs or beneficiaries
For estates exceeding federal exemption thresholds, the IRS mandates a certified appraisal to verify the value of real property as of the decedent’s date of death. In Tarzana—where hillside homes and gated communities often exceed seven figures—a professional valuation ensures compliance, avoids penalties, and supports accurate estate tax filings.
When heirs inherit a property, they receive a new tax basis equal to its value on the date of the decedent’s death. This stepped-up basis affects future capital gains calculations when the property is sold. A Date of Death Appraisal provides the documentation needed to support that valuation and reduce the risk of excessive taxation.
A certified, third-party appraisal ensures transparency and equity among heirs. Whether a property is being transferred to one beneficiary or sold and split among multiple parties, the appraisal establishes an objective value to guide the process and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
Probate courts, attorneys, and trustees require real estate valuations that are accurate and professionally documented. A USPAP-compliant Date of Death Appraisal is the standard report accepted for these purposes and provides peace of mind throughout the estate process.
Tarzana’s real estate market is diverse, and value can vary significantly by location, lot size, and amenities. Familiarity with local trends is critical to accurately determine property value.
Notable neighborhoods and valuation factors include:
Tarzana Hills and Braemar Estates – Luxury hillside homes with views and privacy
South of Ventura Boulevard – High-end custom homes with gated access and large lots
Melody Acres and Corbin Palms – Equine-friendly zones with larger lots and rural character
Reseda Ranch and Tarzana Woods – Traditional single-family homes with unique architecture
Condominiums and Townhomes – Multi-family properties with varying amenities and HOA fees
An experienced local appraiser understands the value influences unique to Tarzana and adjusts comparables accordingly to produce accurate results.
A certified appraisal from Pacific Home Appraisers includes:
Full interior and exterior property inspection (when access is available)
Historical market research and comparable sales from the valuation date
Adjustments for location, condition, square footage, and amenities
High-resolution property photos, parcel maps, and assessor records
Final certified opinion of value, delivered in a professionally formatted PDF
USPAP-compliant report accepted by courts, IRS, CPAs, and attorneys
Estate attorneys handling probate filings
Trustees and fiduciaries managing trust assets
CPAs and tax advisors preparing IRS Form 706
Heirs or beneficiaries managing inherited property
Real estate professionals assisting with property disposition
Probate courts and legal representatives overseeing estate resolution
We begin by confirming the date of death, the purpose of the appraisal, property details, and access. We’ll also discuss your timeline and whether rush delivery is needed.
Our certified appraiser visits the property to assess layout, condition, upgrades, size, and distinguishing features such as pools, guesthouses, and view orientation.
If interior access is unavailable, we can complete a desktop or exterior-only appraisal, using historical data and public records to support valuation.
We select and analyze similar properties sold in Tarzana around the date of death. Each comparable is adjusted for lot size, home condition, square footage, and other factors to arrive at an accurate valuation.
Reports are completed within five to seven business days, with a 48-hour rush option available upon request. Final reports are delivered in PDF format, ready for submission to the IRS, courts, or legal teams.
Yes. These are retrospective appraisals, and they are often completed well after the decedent’s passing. We use historical data and local market knowledge to determine the fair market value from the specific date.
Absolutely. Our appraisals are USPAP-compliant and certified, meeting the standards required for estate tax reporting, probate court, and legal proceedings.
Each property must be appraised individually. We offer bundled pricing and coordinated scheduling for estates that include multiple real estate holdings.
With more than 5,000 appraisals completed throughout Southern California, Pacific Home Appraisers is the trusted provider for estate, trust, and probate-related property valuations in Tarzana. We bring local expertise, accurate reporting, and responsive service to every assignment.
Deep knowledge of Tarzana’s neighborhoods and market trends
Experience with high-value estates, hillside homes, and gated properties
Reports accepted by IRS, courts, attorneys, and CPAs
Standard delivery in 5–7 days, with 48-hour rush available
Professional, discreet, and thorough service
If you’re managing an estate in Tarzana and need a certified Date of Death Appraisal, contact Pacific Home Appraisers for trusted, timely, and accurate reporting.
Call 818-880-1466 Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com to schedule your appraisal or learn more.
We’re here to help you navigate the estate settlement process with precision, professionalism, and peace of mind.