Date of Death Appraisals

When a loved one passes, determining the value of their real estate is often a necessary step in estate settlement. At Wulf Appraisal Corp, we provide professional date of death appraisals to assist executors, trustees, attorneys, and families with this important process. Our appraisals are thorough, impartial, and compliant with all legal and IRS requirements, giving you the clarity and documentation you need during a challenging time.

What Is a Date of Death Appraisal?

A date of death appraisal establishes the fair market value of a property as of the date of an individual’s passing. This valuation is often required for:

• Estate Tax Reporting: The IRS requires a professional appraisal to determine the fair market value of real estate for estate tax purposes. This valuation must reflect the property’s value on the date of death or an alternate valuation date (if elected).

• Probate Proceedings: Accurate real estate valuations help ensure that the estate is settled fairly and equitably.

• Division of Assets: For estates with multiple heirs, a date of death appraisal ensures the property is distributed based on its true market value.

Our appraisals meet the IRS’s standards for a “qualified appraisal” prepared by a “qualified appraiser,” as outlined in IRS Publication 561.

When Might You Need a Date of Death Appraisal?

Date of death appraisals are often necessary in several situations, including:

• Settling an Estate: Executors and trustees need an accurate valuation to satisfy probate or trust administration requirements.

• Filing Estate Taxes: The IRS requires real estate valuations for estates that exceed the federal estate tax exemption threshold.

• Resolving Family Disputes: An impartial appraisal can help minimize disagreements among heirs by providing a fair, accurate valuation.

• Historical Valuations: If an estate was not appraised at the time of passing, a retrospective appraisal can be conducted to establish the property’s value as of the date of death.

What Sets us Apart?

We understand that date of death appraisals are not just about numbers—they’re about helping families and professionals navigate sensitive situations with clarity and professionalism.

• Thorough Reports: Our appraisals are detailed, accurate, and include all necessary documentation to meet IRS and legal requirements.

• Clear Communication: We take the time to explain our process and how we arrive at the property’s value, ensuring all parties understand and trust the results.

• Litigation Support: If disputes arise, we’re available to provide expert testimony and defend our valuations in court.

• Local Expertise: As a Fresno-based company, we have deep knowledge of Fresno County and the Central Valley real estate market, giving us insight into the unique factors that influence property values here.

The Importance of Local Expertise

Fresno County and the Central Valley feature a wide range of property types, from suburban homes in Clovis to rural estates in Selma or Kingsburg. Each area has its own market dynamics, which can significantly impact a property’s value.

We bring a deep understanding of these local factors to every appraisal. Whether you’re handling a single-family home in Fresno or a larger rural property, we provide accurate valuations that reflect the true market value as of the date of death.

Contact Us

We’re here to assist executors, trustees, attorneys, and families in and around Fresno County. Contact us today to learn more about our date of death appraisal services and how we can help you during this important time.