Date-of-death and historical home appraisals in Kent, WA

Is a date-of-death appraisal a retrospective appraisal?

Yes. A date-of-death appraisal is one type of retrospective assignment: the value opinion addresses the specified date of death. Retrospective appraisals can also address other earlier dates. The report may be prepared later; its preparation date does not change the agreed effective date of value.

Which date does your estate need?

Confirm the relevant date and intended use with the personal representative and legal or tax adviser. A historical value for estate records and a current value for selling the home or buying out another owner are different questions. Do not assume one report addresses every estate, tax or family decision.

How is earlier property condition established?

Available dated photographs, prior listings, permits, repair invoices and other records may help establish the property’s characteristics at the effective date. Identify later improvements, damage or changes in use. Discuss gaps in the records so the appraiser can determine the appropriate scope, assumptions and reporting limitations.

What property information should you gather?

Provide the Kent address and parcel or unit identification, property type, access contact and known unusual features. Identify additional parcels, an ADU, separate living areas or condominium interests. Available permits and ownership records can help clarify what is being valued. A mailing address or advertised description is not a substitute for verifying the identified property and its relevant characteristics.

Does the appraiser resolve the estate’s legal issues?

No. A residential value opinion does not determine beneficiaries, require a particular distribution, calculate tax liability or guarantee probate compliance. Commercial property and non-real-estate assets need appropriately scoped separate services. Do not assume a partial interest equals a fixed percentage of whole-property value.

How do you request the right report?

Explain the purpose, effective date, intended users, deadline and known record gaps. Scope and availability should be confirmed before engagement.

Residential appraisals start at $695. Final fees and availability depend on the property, purpose, effective date and scope. Request a residential appraisal quote with the address, purpose, valuation date, intended users and deadline. Alpha Appraisal serves King, Snohomish and Skagit Counties. Call 425-753-1971 or email dustin.labrasseur@gmail.com.

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