Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about date-of-death and estate appraisals in Orange County.
What is a date-of-death appraisal?
It is a retrospective appraisal that establishes a property's fair market value as of the date its owner passed away. That value is used to set the heirs' stepped-up cost basis, support IRS estate filings such as Form 706, and settle trusts and probate estates.
Do you need to visit the Orange County property?
No. Our desktop methodology reconstructs value from MLS records, public data, aerial imagery, and market analysis for the property's specific Orange County submarket. This approach is accepted by the IRS and the courts for estate purposes. If the home's condition on the date of death is relevant, you can provide photographs for us to consider.
Is a desktop appraisal accepted by the IRS?
Yes. A desktop appraisal prepared by a California Certified Residential Appraiser following USPAP standards is accepted by the IRS for estate tax filings, stepped-up basis documentation, and Form 706 submissions, and by California probate courts.
What if the date of death was several years ago?
Retrospective appraisals with effective dates years in the past are routine. Historical MLS data and public records let us establish fair market value as of a specific prior date with confidence.
How much does it cost?
Desktop date-of-death appraisals start at $299 for the Basic Desktop report and $449 for the Standard Desktop report. Complex or high-value properties may be quoted higher, and your exact fee is confirmed in writing before any work begins. See the pricing page for details.
How long does it take?
Most desktop appraisals are delivered within three to five business days of order confirmation. Rush delivery is available for time-sensitive estate matters.
What is the difference between the Basic and Standard reports?
Both use the same market analysis and meet USPAP and IRS standards. The Standard Desktop report is more comprehensive, adding location and neighborhood maps, comparable-sale photographs, and an expanded market-conditions analysis, which CPAs and trustees often prefer for filings.
Can you appraise condominiums and multi-unit homes?
Yes. We regularly value single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and co-op interests across Orange County, including age-restricted communities such as Laguna Woods Village. Larger multi-unit properties can also be handled; contact us for a quote.
Who will prepare my appraisal?
Your report is prepared by Brian Ward, a California Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser (License No. AR036053) with more than 20 years of experience and over 7,000 appraisals completed, and a regular expert witness in estate, family-law, and bankruptcy matters.
What information do you need to start?
The property address, the date of death, and the purpose of the appraisal are enough to begin. Any additional detail about the property or estate helps us confirm scope and fee quickly.
Still have a question? Contact us and we’ll respond within one business day.
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