Date-of-Death Appraisals in Orange County: What to Have Ready

The Value Is Tied to a Past Date

A date-of-death appraisal estimates a home's fair market value on the date someone passed away, rather than its value today. The inspection and report may happen later. This is a retrospective appraisal: the appraiser considers the property and market as they existed on the effective valuation date.

For an inherited home in Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach or elsewhere in Orange County, that distinction matters. A later remodel, a changed ocean view or a shift in nearby sale prices should not simply be treated as though it existed at the earlier date.

Confirm the Purpose With Your Attorney or CPA

The IRS explains that inherited property's basis is generally its fair market value at the owner's death, with exceptions and possible alternative valuation rules. An appraisal documents a value; it does not decide your tax treatment, ownership share or filing obligations.

Before ordering, ask your attorney or CPA which valuation date, ownership interest and intended use the report needs to address. If the same property is involved in probate and tax reporting, confirm whether a separate appraisal is needed for each purpose.

Gather Records of the Home as It Was

Older photographs and records can help the appraiser distinguish the home's earlier condition from its condition at inspection. Do not delay your inquiry if some documents are missing; explain what you have and what changed.

• Property address and date of death
• Attorney or CPA contact and intended use of the report
• Photographs from around the valuation date
• Dates and descriptions of later repairs or renovations
• Available floor plans, permits, leases or prior appraisal reports
• Access arrangements and any requested completion date

Why Local Comparisons Matter

Homes with similar square footage can occupy very different markets. In coastal Orange County, view quality, access, lot characteristics and neighborhood can influence which sales are appropriate comparisons. An inland tract home calls for a different comparison set than a bluff-top custom property.

Mallinson Home Appraisers is family-run and has served the area since 1979. Our Dana Point office handles date-of-death and estate valuation inquiries across Orange County. Send the address, date of death and your professional adviser's requirements so we can discuss the scope before work begins.