Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Pasadena
When a loved one passes away, handling their estate involves more than just emotional closure—it requires legal accuracy, financial documentation, and timely decisions. One of the most important steps in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which establishes the market value of real estate as of the decedent’s date of passing. In a market like Pasadena, known for its architectural heritage, historic homes, and diverse property types, a certified appraisal is essential for probate court filings, IRS compliance, and the fair division of real estate assets.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we offer expert-level, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisal services across Pasadena, trusted by attorneys, CPAs, fiduciaries, and families.
A Date of Death appraisal—also known as a retrospective appraisal—provides an accurate estimate of what a property was worth at the time of the owner's passing. Rather than using today’s market conditions, it relies on sales data and market trends from the relevant time period.
In Pasadena, with its blend of Craftsman homes, Spanish estates, mid-century architecture, and modern developments, each property demands a thoughtful, locally informed approach to valuation.
1. IRS and Estate Tax Compliance For estates exceeding the federal exemption threshold, a certified appraisal is required by the IRS to support the valuation of real property on Form 706. A Date of Death appraisal ensures compliance and reduces the risk of tax-related issues.
2. Step-Up in Basis A DOD appraisal establishes the stepped-up basis for inherited property. This adjusted value can significantly reduce capital gains tax when the property is later sold by heirs.
3. Equitable Distribution of Real Estate Assets If multiple heirs are involved, a neutral third-party valuation ensures that the estate is divided fairly. Whether the home is retained or sold, a certified appraisal offers clarity and transparency.
4. Probate and Trust Filing Requirements Los Angeles County courts require USPAP-compliant appraisals for probate filings and trust accountings. A Date of Death appraisal provides the legal documentation needed for final settlement.
You will need a Date of Death appraisal if:
You are the executor, trustee, or administrator of an estate that includes real property in Pasadena
The property is part of a probate case or trust administration
The estate is filing IRS Form 706 for federal estate tax purposes
The property is being retained, sold, gifted, or divided among beneficiaries
A CPA or estate attorney has requested a certified valuation
You need to establish a stepped-up basis for financial and tax planning
Even if the property is not being sold, the appraisal offers essential documentation and financial protection.
Property Evaluation We begin with a thorough analysis of the property’s location, design, square footage, architectural style, upgrades, lot size, and condition. If interior access is unavailable, we rely on MLS data, prior listings, public records, and photos.
Historical Market Research We analyze comparable sales from the time of death in Pasadena’s many neighborhoods, including Linda Vista, Madison Heights, Bungalow Heaven, and San Rafael Hills. Each comp is carefully selected for its similarity and relevance.
Sales Comparison Approach We apply adjustments to comparable sales based on the subject property’s unique features. This process helps estimate a supportable market value as of the date in question.
Certified USPAP-Compliant Report Our final report is fully compliant with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and is accepted by probate courts, the IRS, attorneys, and financial institutions.
In addition to Date of Death appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers also provides:
Divorce Appraisals – Neutral valuations for equitable division of marital property
Expert Witness Services – Defensible reports and testimony for legal disputes and hearings
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Including estate planning, gifting, refinancing, pre-listing, and property tax appeals
Each appraisal is tailored to the unique goals of our clients, with an emphasis on accuracy, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Pasadena’s real estate is architecturally rich and deeply varied. From Greene and Greene Craftsman estates to modern hillside homes, a proper appraisal requires intimate knowledge of neighborhood nuances, historic design, and premium features.
With over 5,000 assignments completed, Pacific Home Appraisers provides:
Turnaround within five to seven business days
Rush service available within forty-eight hours upon inspection
Reports accepted by the IRS, probate courts, attorneys, and CPAs
Clear communication and expert handling of high-value and complex properties
Can a Date of Death appraisal be completed long after the date of death Yes. These are retrospective appraisals and can be conducted months or years later using historical market data from the appropriate time frame.
Is an appraisal required even if the heirs are not selling the property Yes. The appraisal is still necessary to establish a stepped-up basis and meet legal requirements for estate tax and probate.
Can I use the tax assessor’s value instead No. Assessor values are not based on true market data and are not accepted by the IRS or courts. A certified appraisal is required.
If you are handling a trust, probate, or estate settlement in Pasadena, trust Pacific Home Appraisers to deliver accurate, timely, and court-compliant valuation services.
Call 818-880-1466 Email kiani105@yahoo.com Visit www.pacifichomeappraisers.com