When a loved one passes away, settling their estate involves more than emotional healing—it also requires careful attention to legal and financial responsibilities. One essential step in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the owner passed away.
In a prestigious community like Lake Sherwood, where luxury estates overlook the lake and golf course, having an accurate and certified appraisal is critical. Whether for probate, IRS reporting, or dividing assets among heirs, you need an appraisal that reflects the true value of your property.
Pacific Home Appraisers offers professional, court-approved Date of Death appraisals in Lake Sherwood and surrounding areas. We’re trusted by attorneys, CPAs, trustees, and families seeking clarity and accuracy during sensitive times.
A Date of Death appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—estimates a property's value based on market conditions at the time the decedent passed. Unlike a current appraisal, it uses historical sales data to determine value on that specific date.
Lake Sherwood's real estate includes lakefront mansions, custom villas, and secluded hillside estates. These homes require an appraiser with deep knowledge of the area’s unique architecture, amenities, and market trends.
1. IRS and Estate Tax Filings If the estate exceeds federal tax exemption limits, the IRS requires a certified appraisal when filing Form 706. A DOD appraisal ensures your tax documents are accurate and legally defensible.
2. Step-Up in Basis for Heirs A Date of Death appraisal establishes the updated market value of inherited property. This value becomes the new tax basis and can reduce capital gains taxes when the property is sold.
3. Fair Distribution Among Heirs When multiple heirs are involved, a third-party appraisal provides a neutral and credible valuation—especially helpful if one person keeps the home while others receive financial compensation.
4. Required for Probate and Trust Settlements Courts and trustees need a USPAP-compliant appraisal to confirm the value of real estate listed in the estate. A DOD appraisal ensures all documentation is complete and legally valid.
You’ll need a DOD appraisal if:
You are an executor, administrator, or trustee managing property in Lake Sherwood
The estate includes residential real estate or luxury property
You are filing IRS Form 706 for estate tax purposes
The home will be retained, sold, transferred, or divided among heirs
A CPA or estate attorney has requested an official valuation
You need to establish a stepped-up basis for future tax reporting
Even if the property is not for sale, the appraisal provides necessary documentation for legal and tax compliance.
1. Property Review We evaluate the home’s location, size, architecture, lot characteristics, lake or golf course views, upgrades, and amenities. If interior access isn’t available, we use MLS data, prior photos, and public records.
2. Historical Market Analysis We identify similar sales from the date of death in Lake Sherwood and nearby communities. Every comparable is selected for accuracy based on property size, location, and features.
3. Sales Comparison Approach We adjust each comparable sale to reflect differences in square footage, views, upgrades, and location. This approach helps us determine a fair and defensible market value.
4. Certified Appraisal Report Your report will meet Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and be accepted by the IRS, probate courts, and legal professionals.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, we also offer:
Divorce Appraisals – Unbiased valuations to support fair property division
Expert Witness Services – Court-ready reports and testimony for litigation
Appraisals for Other Purposes – Including estate planning, gifting, pre-listing, refinancing, and property tax appeal
Each appraisal is custom tailored to your needs, whether the home is in a gated community or overlooking Lake Sherwood’s iconic golf course.
Lake Sherwood is one of the most exclusive and high-value neighborhoods in Southern California. Its custom estates, panoramic views, and private settings demand a specialized level of expertise.
With over 5,000 appraisals completed, we offer:
Reliable turnaround within five to seven business days
Rush delivery available in forty-eight hours upon inspection
Clear communication with legal teams, CPAs, and beneficiaries
Reports accepted by courts, banks, the IRS, and attorneys
We combine local insight with professionalism to deliver trusted results.
Can a DOD appraisal be done long after the date of passing Yes. A retrospective appraisal can be performed at any time, using verified historical data from the original date of death.
Do I need an appraisal if the property isn’t being sold Yes. Even if the home will be kept, a DOD appraisal is necessary to establish a stepped-up basis and meet legal requirements.
Can I use the tax assessor’s value No. Assessed values are used for property taxes and are not accepted for IRS or probate filings. A certified appraisal is required.
If you’re managing a trust, estate, or probate case in Lake Sherwood, trust Pacific Home Appraisers for certified, timely, and court-compliant valuation services.
Call 818-880-1466 Email kiani105@yahoo.com Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com