When settling an estate, determining the value of the assets is a crucial step in the process. Estate appraisals provide an official valuation of real estate and other assets, often used for probate, tax assessments, and inheritance distribution. But when an estate includes multiple properties, many may wonder: Can estate appraisals include multiple properties? The […]

# How Does the Federal Estate Tax Exemption in 2025 Affect Appraisal Needs? The federal estate tax exemption is set to change in 2025, a shift that could have significant implications for estate planning and tax liability. Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, the exemption was temporarily doubled, allowing individuals to

# Are Estate Appraisals Required for All Estates? When a person passes away, their estate must go through a legal process to determine its value and distribute assets to heirs or beneficiaries. A key part of this process is the estate appraisal, which assesses the worth of the deceased’s property, real estate, and other assets.

# Understanding Step-Up in Basis and Its Role in Estate Appraisals When an individual inherits property or assets from a deceased person, one of the most important tax considerations is the concept of “step-up in basis.” This tax provision can significantly impact the amount of capital gains tax owed when the inherited asset is eventually

### How Often Should Estate Appraisals Be Updated? Estate appraisals play a crucial role in financial planning, tax assessments, and legal matters. However, estate values are not static—they fluctuate due to market trends, economic conditions, and property improvements. Keeping an estate appraisal up to date is essential to ensure accurate valuations for inheritance planning, tax

# Can Personal Property Inside a Home Affect an Estate Appraisal? When determining the value of an estate, an appraisal is a crucial step in the process. However, many people wonder whether personal property—such as furniture, artwork, jewelry, and collectibles—plays a role in the overall estate valuation. While real property, which includes land and structures,

# How Do You Prepare a Property for an Estate Appraisal? When preparing a property for an estate appraisal, it’s essential to take the right steps to ensure an accurate and fair valuation. Whether settling an estate, planning for probate, or determining market value, proper preparation can help the appraisal process go smoothly and potentially

### Introduction An estate appraisal report is a critical document that provides a detailed assessment of a property’s value. Whether for estate planning, taxation, or legal purposes, a well-prepared appraisal report ensures transparency and accuracy in property valuation. A comprehensive appraisal considers various factors, including property details, market conditions, and valuation methods, to determine an

# How Does the Current Real Estate Market in 2025 Impact Estate Appraisals? The real estate market in 2025 continues to evolve due to a combination of economic factors, government policies, and shifting buyer behavior. These changes have a direct impact on estate appraisals, influencing how properties are valued for sales, refinancing, and inheritance purposes.

# Legal Implications of Undervaluing Real Estate in an Estate Appraisal Estate appraisals play a crucial role in determining the value of a deceased person’s assets, ensuring fair distribution among beneficiaries and proper tax compliance. However, intentionally undervaluing real estate in an estate appraisal can lead to serious legal consequences. While some may attempt to