When an estate appraisal is used
- Reporting the value of real estate on a probate inventory
- Establishing a value as of the date of death for tax and cost-basis records (ask your CPA or attorney what your situation requires)
- Dividing property fairly among heirs, or setting a buyout price for one heir
- Trust administration and estate planning
- Deciding whether to sell, keep, or rent an inherited home
Retrospective (date-of-death) values
A retrospective appraisal estimates what the home was worth on a past effective date. We research the sales and market conditions around that date and describe the property as it existed then, which matters when the home has been cleaned out, repaired, or changed since. Tell us the date of death when you request a quote.
What to have ready
- Property address and the effective date (date of death or another date your attorney specifies)
- Name of the executor, administrator, or attorney the report should be addressed to
- Access arrangements and any known changes to the property since the effective date
Common questions
Can you appraise a house that has already been sold or cleaned out?
Often, yes. For a retrospective assignment we rely on available records, photos, and the condition as of the effective date. Let us know what has changed and we will tell you whether a credible value can be developed.
Do heirs each need their own appraisal?
Not necessarily. Many families agree to one independent appraisal addressed to the executor or attorney. If the heirs are in dispute, ask counsel how they want the engagement set up.
Serving Southern NH & Northern MA
Based in Hudson, we cover Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Strafford Counties in New Hampshire, including Hudson, Nashua, Manchester, Salem and Windham, Londonderry, Derry, Merrimack, Bedford, Milford, Hooksett, Pelham, and Litchfield, plus nearby Essex and Middlesex County, Massachusetts markets such as Lowell, Dracut, and Tyngsborough, Methuen, and Haverhill. See the full service area.