Date of Death Appraisals in San Diego
By Michael Willis | Certified Real Estate Appraiser & Realtor – Serving Del Cerro, San Carlos, Allied Gardens, and all of San Diego
Date of Death Appraisals are one of the most common services I provide for families across San Diego County. In fact, over the course of my career, these types of appraisals have accounted for the majority of my assignments. As the old saying goes, “Death and Taxes” are inevitable—and that’s where a qualified real estate appraiser in San Diego comes in.
Why Do You Need a Date of Death Appraisal?
A Date of Death appraisal helps establish a step-up basis for heirs inheriting real estate. This is a key tax benefit in California. For example, let’s say your parent bought a home in Del Cerro in 1970 for $30,000. If the property is now worth $1,000,000 at the time of their passing, a certified appraisal sets that $1,000,000 value as the new tax basis. If the heir sells the property later for $1,100,000, capital gains are only assessed on the $100,000 increase—not the full appreciation from 1970.
This step-up basis can significantly reduce or even eliminate capital gains tax liability, making it a crucial component of estate planning in San Diego.
When Should You Get the Appraisal Done?
Ideally, a Date of Death appraisal should be completed shortly after the passing of the property owner. This ensures the most accurate valuation and easier access to historical market data, particularly before the home is sold or remodeled. However, I’ve completed these appraisals years—and even decades—after the date of passing.
Whether the property is in San Carlos, Del Cerro, or another part of San Diego, I can still complete the appraisal, even if the home has been updated or transferred. Just know that the longer you wait, the more detailed research may be required.
Can a Realtor Provide a Date of Death Valuation?
A common misconception is that a Realtor can provide a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) instead of an appraisal. However, for IRS and legal purposes, only a Certified Real Estate Appraiser can provide a qualified Date of Death valuation. The IRS requires a “Qualified Appraiser” per IRS guidelines.
As a San Diego-based Certified Appraiser and Realtor, I bring the professional credentials necessary to ensure your appraisal is both accurate and compliant with IRS standards. This is particularly important if you’re working with an estate attorney, CPA, or financial planner.
How Much Does a Date of Death Appraisal Cost?
The cost of a San Diego Date of Death appraisal varies based on several factors:
Is the home in a standard tract development like much of San Carlos or Allied Gardens?
Or is it a custom or unique property in an area with fewer comparable sales?
Each situation is different, but I’m happy to provide a quote once I understand the property and scope of work.
Contact Michael Willis – Local San Diego Appraiser & Realtor
If you need a Date of Death appraisal or step-up basis valuation in San Diego, especially in the neighborhoods of Del Cerro, San Carlos, or Allied Gardens, contact me today. I’ve completed thousands of appraisals across San Diego County and work closely with families, estate planners, and tax professionals to make this process as smooth as possible.
📞 Michael Willis
Certified Residential Appraiser & Realtor
Serving San Diego, Del Cerro, San Carlos, Allied Gardens, and all of San Diego County.
[619-881-7802] | [michaelwillisre@gmail.com] | [www.michaelwillisre.com]