Can You Get a Date-of-Death Appraisal Years Later in Sacramento?
Yes—in many cases, a date-of-death appraisal can be completed several years after someone passes away. This is called a retrospective appraisal. It develops an opinion of a property’s value as of a specific past date, even though the research and report are completed today.
If you inherited a home in Sacramento or a surrounding community and did not obtain an appraisal at the time, the first step is to discuss the property, the required valuation date and the purpose of the report with an appraiser.
How does an appraisal establish a past value?
A date-of-death appraisal looks at the property and market conditions relevant to the historical valuation date.
For example, if a homeowner passed away in 2021 and the appraisal is ordered today, the assignment would address the home’s value as of the specified date in 2021. Today’s market value could be substantially different.
The appraiser researches historical sales, property records and other relevant information to develop a supported opinion of value. The report distinguishes the historical effective date from the date the report is prepared.
What if the home has been remodeled since then?
Changes to the property are an important part of the research.
A kitchen remodeled after the valuation date should be distinguished from the kitchen that existed at that time. The same applies to additions, damage, repairs and changes in overall condition.
Older photographs, real estate listings, prior appraisal reports, permits and renovation records can help explain the property’s earlier characteristics. Family members may also have useful information about when changes occurred.
A current inspection may help document the property, but additional research is needed to understand its condition on the historical date.
How far back can an appraiser go?
There is no single lookback period that guarantees every assignment will be feasible. The answer depends on the property, the requested date and the availability of reliable information.
An older valuation date may require more research. A property that has changed substantially may also present different challenges from one that remains largely unchanged.
Before accepting the assignment, the appraiser should discuss whether the available information can support a credible valuation and explain any important limitations.
What should you gather before ordering?
You do not need a complete file to make an initial inquiry. Start with:
- The property address.
- The date of death and any written instructions identifying the required valuation date.
- The purpose of the appraisal and who will use it.
- Any deadline for receiving the report.
- Information about access to the property.
- Known remodeling, repairs or damage, including approximate dates.
- Older photographs, listings or previous appraisals, if available.
If you are working with an attorney or tax professional, obtain their instructions about the required date, property interest and intended use before ordering. The appraisal provides a valuation; your adviser determines how it applies to your circumstances.
How much does a retrospective appraisal cost?
The fee depends on the property, the historical date, the research required and the scope of the assignment. Providing the address, valuation date and intended use allows the appraiser to give a more useful quote.
You can also read our guide to home appraisal costs in Sacramento.
Need a date-of-death appraisal in the Sacramento area?
Bolton Appraisal Services provides residential date-of-death and estate appraisals in Sacramento and surrounding communities. Work directly with California Certified Residential Appraiser Jeff Bolton to discuss the property, historical valuation date and reporting needs.
Learn more about our date-of-death and estate appraisal services, or call 916-803-8153 to discuss an assignment.
