When a loved one passes away, handling their estate involves both emotional and legal responsibilities. If the estate includes real property, one of the most important steps in the process is obtaining a certified Date of Death Appraisal. For families, trustees, attorneys, and estate professionals in Agoura Hills, this step ensures compliance with IRS regulations, proper distribution of assets, and accurate estate valuation.
At Pacific Home Appraisers, we provide professional, IRS-compliant Date of Death Appraisals throughout Agoura Hills. With over 5,000 completed assignments and extensive knowledge of the local market, we deliver reliable retrospective valuations that meet court, tax, and trust requirements.
A Date of Death Appraisal is a retrospective real estate valuation that determines the fair market value of a property as of the date the property owner passed away. Unlike a current market appraisal, a Date of Death Appraisal looks back in time to assess value using data, comparables, and trends from that specific date.
This type of appraisal is typically required for:
Probate court proceedings
Estate tax filings with the IRS
Trust and inheritance planning
Asset distribution among beneficiaries
Capital gains tax calculations using a stepped-up basis
The accuracy of this valuation is critical. It affects tax obligations, legal filings, and family outcomes. Working with a certified appraiser ensures you receive a report that stands up to legal and financial scrutiny.
Agoura Hills features a wide variety of residential neighborhoods and home styles, from equestrian estates in Old Agoura to executive homes in Morrison Ranch and family homes in Lake Lindero. Each area has its own market dynamics, value ranges, and property characteristics.
Generic valuations or inexperienced appraisers may overlook important differences in condition, location, or amenities that can significantly impact value. This can lead to:
Delays in probate court
IRS valuation disputes
Misallocation of inherited assets
Inaccurate capital gains basis
Pacific Home Appraisers has deep experience in Agoura Hills and understands its unique property landscape. We use local market data and apply carefully adjusted comparables to arrive at a fair and supportable valuation as of the required retrospective date.
You may need a Date of Death Appraisal if you are:
An executor or administrator of an estate
A trustee responsible for property distribution
A probate attorney handling estate matters
A tax professional or CPA filing estate returns
A family member managing an inheritance
A beneficiary seeking an accurate property value
Even if the property is not being sold, an accurate and certified appraisal is essential for estate documentation, tax filings, and protecting the interests of all parties involved.
We provide a clear, professional, and responsive process for every appraisal. Here is how it works:
Step One: Initial consultation and scheduling We begin by gathering information about the property and the required appraisal date. We schedule a convenient time for the property inspection and clarify any special circumstances.
Step Two: Property inspection We perform either a full interior and exterior inspection or an exterior-only review, depending on the needs of the estate or accessibility.
Step Three: Market research and analysis Our appraiser collects and analyzes market data, comparable sales, and property characteristics relevant to the date of death. We adjust for differences in size, condition, and amenities.
Step Four: Delivery of certified report We deliver a detailed, court-ready appraisal report in five to seven business days. For urgent matters, we offer a rush delivery option within 48 hours following the inspection.
Since 2005, Pacific Home Appraisers has been trusted for professional, unbiased, and timely appraisals across Agoura Hills and surrounding communities. Our qualifications and service include:
More than 5,000 appraisals completed
Certified and approved for legal and IRS use
Familiarity with all Agoura Hills neighborhoods
Reports tailored for probate, tax, and trust needs
Flexible scheduling and rush delivery available
We are committed to delivering accurate, court-compliant reports that stand up to scrutiny and support smooth estate administration.
Is a Date of Death Appraisal required for probate Yes. Most probate cases involving real estate require a certified appraisal to determine the fair market value as of the date of death.
Can you complete an appraisal even if the property has been sold Yes. Retrospective appraisals are common, and we can complete a Date of Death Appraisal even after the property has sold, using data from the required date.
Can I use a property tax assessment instead No. Tax assessments are not considered valid by probate courts or the IRS. A certified appraisal from a licensed professional is required.
Do you work with attorneys and CPAs Yes. We routinely coordinate with attorneys, tax professionals, and fiduciaries to ensure reports meet all legal and financial standards.
We offer appraisal services in all neighborhoods of Agoura Hills, including:
Old Agoura
Morrison Ranch
Lake Lindero
Reyes Adobe
Forest Cove
Chateau Park
Custom and hillside properties
No matter the size or location of the property, we provide consistent and high-quality service to meet your estate appraisal needs.
If you are managing an estate, preparing a tax return, or settling a trust that involves real property in Agoura Hills, Pacific Home Appraisers is ready to help. We provide certified, professional, and prompt Date of Death Appraisals tailored to your legal and financial requirements.
Call us today: 818-880-1466 For more information, visit: www.pacifichomeappraisers.com