Estate and Probate Appraisals
Residential real estate is often one of the most significant assets in an estate. An independent appraisal provides a well-supported opinion of value to assist executors, personal representatives, trustees, beneficiaries, attorneys, and accountants with informed estate-related decisions.
When an Estate Appraisal May Be Needed
A residential estate appraisal may assist with:
Establishing the property’s current market value
Preparing estate or probate documentation
Evaluating a proposed sale of the property
Distributing property among heirs or beneficiaries
Determining an equitable buyout between interested parties
Supporting mediation, litigation, or other estate proceedings
Establishing a historical value as of the owner’s date of death
The appraisal determines the value of the real estate. It does not determine ownership rights, distribute estate assets, calculate taxes, or provide legal or tax advice.
Current and Retrospective Appraisals
Some estate matters require the property’s current market value, while others require a retrospective opinion of value as of the owner’s date of death or another specified historical date.
The executor, personal representative, or trustee should consult the estate’s attorney or tax professional to confirm the appropriate effective date and intended use before ordering the appraisal.
Professional and Independent Reporting
Every assignment is completed by a Michigan Certified Residential Appraiser in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. The appraisal report includes the applicable effective date, scope of work, property analysis, relevant market data, and final opinion of value.
Information provided by the client or estate representative may be considered when relevant, but the appraisal conclusions must result from independent research, analysis, and professional judgment. No particular value or outcome can be guaranteed.
Information Needed to Begin
To properly establish the assignment, the appraiser may request:
The property address
The name of the client and applicable estate
The appraisal’s intended use and intended users
The required effective date
Property access information
Available records concerning the property’s condition
Any instructions supplied by the attorney or tax professional
Service Area
Tri-County Appraisal Group, Inc. provides residential estate and probate appraisal services throughout Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, and Monroe Counties.
To discuss the property, required valuation date, and intended use of the appraisal, call 313-329-0313 or submit a Private Appraisal Request.
