Built around the appraisal problem
Estate assignments can require a value opinion as of today, a date of death, or another prior effective date. The appraisal must be built around the date and intended use identified by the client or estate professional.
Current value and historical value are different assignments
A current appraisal analyzes the market as of a present effective date. A retrospective appraisal asks what the property was worth at an earlier point in time, which means the relevant sales, market conditions and property condition must be considered in historical context.
That distinction is important for estate settlement, basis-related work, legal matters and other assignments where today's value may not answer the actual question.
Reconstructing historical property condition
When the property has been renovated, damaged, altered or substantially improved after the historical date, available documentation can matter. Prior MLS photographs, permits, invoices, old photographs and reliable property records may help establish what existed at the effective date.
We review the available information before accepting an assignment that depends heavily on historical condition.
Working with attorneys, accountants and executors
We can communicate directly with the identified client or professional representative about scope, access and the required effective date. The appraisal report addresses the valuation assignment; legal and tax determinations remain with the appropriate adviser.
Information that commonly helps
- property address
- required effective date or date of death
- client and intended users
- historical photographs or prior listing information when relevant
- known renovations or condition changes
- property access contact
If the estate professional has not yet identified the required effective date, confirm that requirement first. The appraisal should answer the correct valuation question.
Start an Appraisal RequestFrequently asked questions
What is a retrospective appraisal?
A retrospective appraisal develops an opinion of value as of a prior effective date. The analysis considers market evidence relevant to that historical date rather than simply applying today's market conditions.
Who should identify the estate appraisal date?
The attorney, accountant, executor or other professional handling the estate should identify the effective date required for the assignment. We provide valuation services rather than tax or legal advice.
Can you appraise the property if it has changed since the effective date?
Often yes. Historical photographs, prior listings, permits, renovation records and interviews may help establish the property's condition as of the effective date. The available evidence becomes part of the scope review.
Do you provide date-of-death appraisals?
Yes, when the client requires a retrospective residential value opinion as of the date of death or another identified historical date.