Date of Death (Retrospective / Retroactive) Appraisals
A Date of Death appraisal determines the fair market value of a property as of a
specific past effective date, most commonly the date of death. These reports are
commonly used for estate settlement, probate proceedings, trust administration,
and IRS reporting.
With experience performing retrospective appraisals throughout Alameda County
and the East Bay, I provide well-supported valuations relied upon by attorneys,
CPAs, trustees, and heirs for IRS reporting and estate administration.
Stepped-Up Basis and IRS Reporting
One of the most common reasons families request a Date of Death appraisal is to
establish the stepped-up tax basis of inherited real estate. This represents the
fair market value of the property as of the date of death and becomes the new
tax basis for heirs.
My Approach to Date of Death Appraisals
My appraisal process emphasizes paired sales analysis and detailed market
research. Rather than relying on broad adjustments, I analyze how specific
property characteristics affected sale prices in the market at the time of the
effective date.
An Example From an Albany Assignment
Albany is a small, tightly defined market where school district boundaries and
proximity to Berkeley can significantly influence buyer demand. Even when homes
appear similar in size and condition, differences in school access and location
within Albany can affect how buyers respond to properties.
In retrospective appraisals, careful comparable selection is required to ensure
that sales truly represent the same market segment at the time of the effective
date. Paired sales analysis helps determine how buyers were reacting to those
differences.
- ✔️ USPAP-compliant reports prepared for IRS and estate documentation
- ✔️ 48-hour turnaround available for many assignments
- ✔️ Flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees
Service Areas
I provide Date of Death appraisal services throughout Albany and nearby East Bay
communities including
Oakland, and
Emeryville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Date of Death appraisal?
A Date of Death appraisal is a retrospective appraisal that determines the fair
market value of a property as of the date of death for estate, probate, or tax
purposes.
