Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Brentwood
When a loved one passes away, settling their estate is an emotional journey—one that also requires accuracy, organization, and compliance with legal and tax obligations. One of the most important components of this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the market value of real estate as of the date the decedent passed away. In a premier neighborhood like Brentwood, where estates range from historic ranch-style homes to modern architectural residences, a certified and local appraisal is critical for IRS filings, probate court proceedings, and fair distribution among heirs.
Pacific Home Appraisers provides professional, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisals throughout Brentwood, trusted by attorneys, accountants, trustees, and families across Los Angeles.
A Date of Death appraisal, also referred to as a retrospective appraisal, estimates a property’s value based on the real estate market conditions at the time the property owner passed away. This differs from a current appraisal, as it uses historical sales data to determine what the home was worth on that specific date.
In Brentwood, where properties span gated estates in Brentwood Park to view homes in Crestwood Hills, no two appraisals are alike. Each valuation demands a thoughtful, highly localized approach.
1. IRS and Estate Tax Filings When an estate exceeds the federal exemption threshold, the IRS requires a certified appraisal of real estate included in IRS Form 706. A DOD appraisal ensures tax filings are accurate and legally defensible.
2. Step-Up in Basis for Heirs A DOD appraisal provides documentation for the property’s stepped-up basis, which adjusts its value to the market level at the time of death. This helps reduce capital gains taxes for heirs if the property is sold later.
3. Fair Division of Assets Among Beneficiaries When multiple heirs are involved, a third-party appraisal ensures that everyone receives their fair share—particularly if one party retains the home and others receive financial compensation.
4. Probate and Trust Reporting Requirements Los Angeles County courts require USPAP-compliant appraisals to support the valuation of real estate in probate filings and trust administration. A DOD appraisal meets this legal obligation.
You will need a DOD appraisal if:
You are serving as the executor, administrator, or trustee of an estate that includes real property in Brentwood
The property is subject to probate or trust administration
The estate must file IRS Form 706 for federal estate tax purposes
The home will be sold, retained, transferred, or divided among beneficiaries
You need to document a stepped-up basis for future tax and financial planning
A CPA or estate attorney has requested an appraisal for legal compliance
Even if the property is not being sold, a certified Date of Death appraisal offers clarity and legal protection for all involved parties.
Property Review We evaluate the property's location, size, layout, condition, upgrades, lot value, and distinguishing features such as views or privacy. If interior access is not possible, we use historical data, photos, and public records.
Historical Market Research We analyze comparable sales from the relevant time period in Brentwood’s core neighborhoods, such as Brentwood Park, Mandeville Canyon, Kenter Canyon, and North Bundy. Each comp is carefully selected and adjusted for accuracy.
Sales Comparison Approach The appraiser adjusts comparable sales for square footage, amenities, condition, and location to estimate the subject property’s value as of the date of death.
Certified USPAP-Compliant Report Our final report is compliant with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and is accepted by courts, the IRS, legal teams, and financial professionals.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers also offers:
Divorce Appraisals – Certified, unbiased valuations for equitable property division
Expert Witness Services – Legal support and testimony for valuation disputes and litigation
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including pre-listing, refinancing, estate planning, gifting, or property tax appeal
We specialize in both traditional and complex appraisal assignments throughout high-value Los Angeles neighborhoods.
Brentwood's real estate is sophisticated, varied, and constantly evolving. From the estates in lower Brentwood to hillside homes above Sunset, each appraisal must reflect the specific market forces that influence value.
With over 5,000 appraisal assignments completed, Pacific Home Appraisers offers:
Standard turnaround in five to seven business days
Rush delivery available within forty-eight hours upon inspection
Reports accepted by probate courts, IRS, attorneys, and accountants
Clear communication and expert handling of luxury property valuations
Can a Date of Death appraisal be done long after the decedent passed away Yes. DOD appraisals are retrospective and can be completed months or years after the date of death using historical data from that period.
Is the appraisal required if the heirs are not selling the property Yes. Even if the property will be kept in the family, the appraisal is needed for tax documentation and probate court compliance.
Can I use the tax assessor’s value instead No. Assessor values are not market-based and are not accepted by the IRS or court. A certified appraisal is required for official estate purposes.
If you are handling a probate, trust, or estate settlement in Brentwood, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to deliver timely, accurate, and legally compliant real estate valuation services.
Call 818-880-1466 Email kiani105@yahoo.com Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com