Probate Appraisal

What is a probate appraisal?

A probate appraisal determines the fair market value of a decedent's assets as of the date of death, supporting estate settlement, tax compliance, and equitable distribution among beneficiaries. The resulting USPAP-compliant report is used for court filings, beneficiary reporting, and tax purposes.

When is a probate appraisal required?

Probate appraisals are required when courts mandate an estate inventory, when an estate exceeds the federal exemption threshold (approximately $13.99 million in 2026), or when a stepped-up cost basis needs to be established for inherited assets. Informal estimates are routinely rejected by courts and the IRS, so a credentialed appraisal is essential whenever assets are material to the estate.

What types of assets need a probate appraisal?

Courts require accredited appraisals for any asset that could affect taxes, distributions, or disputes. Covered asset types include:

• Personal property: jewelry, antiques, furniture, coins, collectibles, and household goods
• Equipment and machinery: medical equipment, restaurant equipment, manufacturing machinery, and technology assets
• Artwork: paintings, prints, sculpture, photography, and mixed media
• Boats: sailboats, powerboats, yachts, jet skis, and personal watercraft
• Automobiles: cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs, trailers, and classic vehicles

Who qualifies as an appraiser for probate purposes?

Qualified probate appraisers hold accreditations from recognized bodies such as the ASA, ISA, or AAA for personal property, art, and vehicles. AppraiseItNow works exclusively with credentialed appraisers who meet these standards, ensuring reports are defensible in court and with the IRS.

Are AppraiseItNow's probate appraisals USPAP-compliant?

Yes. All probate appraisals are prepared in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, including detailed analysis, comparable sales, and a date-of-death "as-is" valuation. This ensures the reports are defensible before courts and the IRS.

What information do you need to get started?

Providing complete documentation at the outset speeds the process and improves accuracy. Helpful items include:

• Death certificate
• Will or trust documents
• Asset lists with descriptions and photos
• Prior appraisals or purchase records
• Any relevant improvement records
• The confirmed date of death for retrospective valuation

How long does a probate appraisal take?

Turnaround depends on asset type and scope:

• Personal property: 7 to 10 days for most remote appraisals; 2 to 3 weeks for onsite inspections or larger collections; rush same-day or next-day service available
• Equipment and machinery: 7 to 10 days remote; 2 to 3 weeks for onsite or larger collections; rush service available
• Artwork: 5 to 7 days for straightforward assignments; 2 to 3 weeks for advanced or large collections
• Automobiles: 3 to 5 days depending on complexity and number of vehicles
• Boats: 3 to 5 days for standard appraisals; marine surveys, when required, typically take 3 to 5 weeks to schedule and complete

How much does a probate appraisal cost?

Fees vary depending on asset type, collection size, and whether an onsite inspection is needed, visit our pricing page for a full breakdown. Rush service is available at an additional cost.

Can you appraise assets located anywhere in the US?

Yes. AppraiseItNow provides remote appraisals nationwide and can coordinate onsite inspections across the country for assets that require physical examination.

Will my appraisal be accepted by the court or IRS?

AppraiseItNow's probate appraisals are prepared to meet qualified appraisal standards, including a stated valuation date, documented methodology, credentialed appraiser information, and a non-contingent fee declaration. While no firm can guarantee acceptance in every case, adhering to these standards significantly reduces the risk of challenge, rejection, or penalty.

Do you buy, sell, or broker assets?

No. AppraiseItNow provides independent appraisals only. We have no financial interest in any asset we appraise, which is a core requirement for USPAP compliance and court defensibility.

Can an executor appraise estate assets themselves?

No. Courts reject self-appraisals as inherently biased, and many states, including California, require independent accredited appraisers or a court-appointed probate referee for non-cash personal property. An independent appraisal from a credentialed professional is the only defensible option.

Are assets in a living trust included in the probate appraisal?

No. Assets held in a living trust or with beneficiary designations, such as payable-on-death accounts or life insurance, transfer directly outside of court supervision and are not part of the probate estate. Only assets subject to probate require a formal appraisal.

What happens if an asset is discovered after the inventory is filed?

The executor files an amended or supplemental inventory with the court, accompanied by a new appraisal reflecting the asset's fair market value as of the date of death. Reporting promptly is important, as courts may scrutinize delays and penalize concealment.

How does the appraised value affect executor and attorney fees in California?

In California, statutory fees for executors and attorneys are calculated as a percentage of the estate's gross appraised value under Probate Code Section 10800, 4% on the first $100,000, 3% on the next $900,000, and so on. A higher appraised value increases those fees, so accurate valuation matters for all parties involved.

What are the deadlines for filing a probate inventory in California?

In California, the probate inventory must generally be filed within four months of the issuance of Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration. Late filings require court approval and can delay estate administration, so engaging an appraiser promptly after appointment is advisable.