Understanding the Importance of Date of Death Appraisals – Westwood
When a loved one passes, the responsibility of settling their estate falls on family members, trustees, or legal representatives. One of the most crucial steps in this process is obtaining a Date of Death (DOD) appraisal, which determines the fair market value of a property as of the exact date of the decedent’s passing. In a prestigious neighborhood like Westwood, where real estate includes luxury condos along Wilshire Corridor, historic homes in Little Holmby, and investment properties near UCLA, a certified and locally experienced appraiser is essential for legal accuracy and financial fairness.
Pacific Home Appraisers provides timely, USPAP-compliant Date of Death appraisals across Westwood and greater West Los Angeles—trusted by attorneys, CPAs, trustees, and families alike.
A Date of Death appraisal, also called a retrospective appraisal, estimates a property’s value based on market conditions at the time the owner passed away, rather than current prices. This valuation is legally required in many probate and trust administration cases, and for estate tax reporting to the IRS.
In Westwood—where home values can vary significantly between The Wilshire Corridor, Westwood Village, Little Holmby, and North Village—deep neighborhood knowledge is vital for an accurate assessment.
For estates exceeding federal exemption limits, the IRS requires a certified real estate valuation. A DOD appraisal ensures estate tax filings are accurate and defensible in case of audit.
A DOD appraisal documents the stepped-up tax basis for inherited property, adjusting the value to its market level at the time of death. This reduces future capital gains tax if the property is later sold.
In estates involving multiple heirs, a neutral third-party appraisal helps prevent disputes and ensures a fair division of real property—especially when one party retains the home while others receive monetary compensation.
Los Angeles County probate courts require USPAP-compliant appraisals for estate documentation. A certified DOD appraisal meets this requirement and supports the legal transfer of assets.
You’ll need a DOD appraisal if:
You’re the executor, administrator, or trustee of an estate
The property is included in a probate or trust case
A CPA or attorney requires a historical valuation for estate tax filing
The home will be sold, gifted, or retained by heirs
The estate involves multiple beneficiaries
You’re filing IRS Form 706 or need to establish a stepped-up basis
Even if there is no intention to sell, the appraisal helps establish legal clarity and tax preparedness.
We assess location, square footage, floor plan, upgrades, condition, and amenities—whether it’s a Wilshire Corridor high-rise, a Little Holmby estate, or a rental near UCLA. If access isn’t possible, we use MLS data, public records, and past photos.
We use comparable sales from the period surrounding the decedent’s passing, selecting homes in Westwood and nearby neighborhoods with similar characteristics and making necessary value adjustments.
This method adjusts sales of comparable properties to estimate the subject home’s value at the time of death. It is the industry standard for most residential appraisals.
We provide a detailed report in line with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)—accepted by the IRS, probate courts, CPAs, and estate attorneys.
In addition to Date of Death valuations, Pacific Home Appraisers also offers:
Divorce Appraisals – Accurate and impartial valuations for equitable distribution
Expert Witness Appraisals – Defensible valuation reports and in-court testimony
Appraisals for Any Intended Use – Refinancing, pre-listing, estate planning, gifting, and tax appeals
Every appraisal is tailored to meet your specific legal, financial, or administrative needs.
Westwood’s real estate market is highly specialized and varies by block. From luxury condos in The Carlyle and The Remington, to historic homes in Holmby Hills, each property type requires a nuanced approach.
With over 5,000 completed appraisals, Pacific Home Appraisers brings deep local insight, years of experience, and legal compliance to every report.
We provide:
Turnaround within 5–7 business days
Rush delivery in 48 hours available upon inspection
Detailed, court-ready and IRS-accepted reports
Responsive service to families, legal teams, and financial professionals
Yes. DOD appraisals are retrospective and can be completed months or even years later using historical market data.
Yes. It’s still necessary to document the stepped-up basis for tax purposes and to satisfy legal requirements.
No. County assessor values are for property tax purposes only. A certified appraisal is required for probate court and IRS use.
If you're settling an estate, managing a trust, or navigating probate in Westwood, count on Pacific Home Appraisers for expert guidance, timely service, and reliable valuation.
?? Call: 818-880-1466 ?? Email: kiani105@yahoo.com ?? Visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com
Tags: #WestwoodAppraiser #DateOfDeathAppraisal #EstateValuation #ProbateAppraisal #TrustAppraisal #RetrospectiveAppraisal #DivorceAppraisal #ExpertWitnessAppraiser #RealEstateAppraisalWestwood #PacificHomeAppraisers