Estate Settlement Appraisals in Arlington, VA
Executors, trustees, and heirs count on Square Feet Appraisals for independent, defensible valuations used in probate, tax reporting, and equitable distribution. We complete retrospective appraisals tied to the required effective date—most often the date of death (or another court/IRS-specified date)—and we document our methods so every stakeholder understands how we arrived at the conclusion.
Why This Appraisal Matters
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Compliance & Reporting: Establishes fair market value as of the required historical date for probate filings, trust accounting, and potential federal/state tax reporting.
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Step-Up in Basis Documentation: Provides the valuation record heirs and CPAs need for future capital-gains calculations when the property is sold.
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Equitable Distribution: Creates a neutral benchmark for buyouts among heirs or division of assets when multiple properties are involved.
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Dispute Reduction: Transparent methodology and cited sources help align expectations and reduce conflicts between beneficiaries.
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Executor Protection: A third-party, USPAP-compliant opinion demonstrates prudent, well-documented decision-making by the fiduciary.
What We Deliver
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USPAP-Compliant Report: Clear scope, intended use/users, certification, and limiting conditions tailored to estate needs.
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Retrospective Effective Date: Explicit statement of the valuation date (e.g., date of death or alternate valuation date) and how data were limited to information knowable at that time.
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Verified Historical Comparables: Sales that bracket the effective date, supported by archived MLS, public records, and contemporaneous market evidence.
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Market Conditions Commentary (Then, Not Now): Inventory levels, marketing times, interest-rate environment, and neighborhood trends as they existed on the valuation date, with support.
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Adjustments & Reconciliation: Time/market condition adjustments (when warranted), plus a transparent analysis that reconciles to a well-supported opinion of value.
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Property-as-of-Date Documentation: Discussion of the property’s characteristics and condition as they existed on the effective date (with extraordinary assumptions or hypothetical conditions noted if the current condition differs).
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Exhibits & Workfile Evidence: Maps, comparable sales sheets, excerpts of MLS/public record archives, and other relevant support.
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Professional Coordination: We collaborate with attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries on timing, scope, and deliverables; expert testimony available upon request.
Service Area
Arlington County and nearby Northern Virginia communities including Alexandria, Falls Church, McLean, Vienna, and Fairfax County.
Helpful Resources
The Appraisal Foundation (USPAP)
Frequently Asked Questions
What effective date is used?
Most estates require the date of death. Alternate valuation dates may apply in certain IRS contexts; we can align to the required date.
What if the home was renovated after the date of death?
We analyze the property as it existed on the effective date. Documented changes after that date are considered separately.
Can your appraisal help resolve beneficiary disputes?
An independent appraisal provides a neutral, well-supported valuation that can reduce disagreements and expedite settlement.
How quickly can you complete the assignment?
Timing depends on property complexity and record availability. We prioritize estate files and keep all parties informed of progress.