The Appraisal Process
Here's exactly what to expect from first contact to final report delivery.
What to Have Ready — Quick Reference
Keep this list handy when you call or submit your request. The more detail you can provide upfront, the faster we can scope your assignment and get back to you with a quote.
- Purpose of the appraisal — Date of Death, estate settlement, divorce, trust update, or other
- Property address
- Date of death (if applicable)
- Name as it appears on the title report
- Any recent renovations or improvements
- Bedroom and bathroom count
- Square footage / Gross Living Area (GLA)
Our Appraisal Process
Ready to get started? Call Sue at (714) 328-3115 or request a quote online.
Engage & Document
We gather the property address, date of death, and any available records. We confirm the scope of work and turnaround timeline with the estate attorney or executor.
Historical Research
We research comparable sales active on or near the date of death using MLS archives, public records, and proprietary databases to reconstruct market conditions.
Property Inspection
We inspect the subject property (or use available records for retrospective dates) to document condition, features, and any factors affecting value at the relevant date.
Certified Report Delivery
We deliver a USPAP-compliant written appraisal report, signed and certified, ready for IRS submission, probate court, or estate settlement — typically within 5–7 business days.
What's Included in the Appraisal Report
You need a professional real estate appraiser bound by USPAP for the confidentiality, accuracy, and professionalism required by taxing authorities and the courts.
MLS Research Criteria Search
Covering the last 12–36 month period for the subject property type and market area.
Market Statistics Data
For all product types (square footage, lot size, etc.) within the market search area.
Market Sales Graph
Going back approximately 3 years for the product search criteria, showing the market trend over time.
USPAP-Compliant Report
Prepared to the standards taxing authorities and courts need — with full confidentiality and professionalism.
Serving All of Orange County, CA
Certified residential appraisals for all 35 cities throughout Orange County, CA.