What Is an Estate Settlement Appraisal?

An estate settlement appraisal is a formal, independent valuation of a deceased individual’s real estate.

It’s commonly needed for:

• Probate court filings
• Estate tax returns
• Asset division among heirs

• Trust administration
• Dispute prevention and resolution

Our appraisers use fair market valuation methods based on the property’s condition, location, and comparable sales to deliver reliable reports with supporting documentation.

When Do You Need an Appraisal for Probate?

A real estate appraisal is often needed soon after someone passes away, especially if their estate is going through probate or filing for estate taxes. Sometimes, you might also need what’s called a retrospective appraisal, which determines the value of the property as it was on the date of death. We offer both current appraisals for recent valuations and retrospective appraisals, so we can help meet your specific timeline and legal requirements.

Excel Real Estate Appraisal Services Inc.’s Estate Settlement Appraisal Services

Excel Real Estate Appraisal Services Inc. tailors every appraisal to meet the specific requirements of estate and probate proceedings.

Our estate settlement appraisal services include:

• Retrospective appraisals
• Current market value appraisals
• Multiple property appraisals

• Court-ready reports
• Attorney and CPA coordination

We work directly with families, executors, attorneys, and financial professionals to deliver appraisals that are timely, accurate, and compliant with legal standards.

How Is Fair Market Value Determined?

To determine the fair market value of a property, we use what’s called the sales comparison approach. This means we look at similar properties in the area that have recently sold and compare their features, like size, location, and condition, to the property being appraised. By doing this, we can figure out what a willing buyer would have likely paid for the property under normal market conditions. This method provides a solid and reliable valuation that you can feel confident in.

What’s Included in the Estate Appraisal Report?

An estate appraisal report provides a comprehensive, legally recognized valuation of the property that can be used for probate, taxation, or estate planning purposes. Each report includes a detailed description of the property’s physical characteristics, along with supporting market data from comparable sales in the area. We include high-quality photos, maps, and location details to support transparency, as well as a professional analysis explaining how the final value was determined. The report is signed and certified by a licensed appraiser and formatted to meet court, tax, and attorney requirements.