Estate Planning & Probate Services

Our Estate Planning and Probate Appraisal Services

Handling an estate can be a complex process that requires accurate and reliable property valuations. At Funkhouser Appraisal Services, we provide professional estate planning and probate appraisal services to assist families, attorneys, and executors in San Antonio, Bexar County, and surrounding areas. Our certified appraisers deliver detailed, unbiased appraisals to ensure the fair and equitable distribution of property during estate planning and probate proceedings.

Our Services Include

We understand the sensitive nature of estate planning and probate and offer a range of appraisal services to meet your specific needs. Our services include:

  • Date of Death (Retrospective) Appraisals: We provide appraisals that reflect the property’s value as of the date of a loved one’s passing, as required for probate and estate tax filings.

  • Current Market Value Appraisals: For estate planning purposes, we determine the current market value of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.

  • Multi-Family Property Appraisals: We handle appraisals for duplexes, triplexes, and other multi-family properties that are part of an estate.

  • Appraisals for Trusts and Estates: Our appraisals help trustees, executors, and beneficiaries understand the true market value of real estate assets, aiding in fair distribution.

  • Equitable Distribution Appraisals: We provide appraisals for dividing real estate assets among heirs or beneficiaries, ensuring a fair and impartial process.

  • Expert Witness Testimony: Our experienced appraisers are available to provide expert testimony in court to support our appraisal reports, should disputes arise during probate.

When You Might Need an Estate Planning or Probate Appraisal

There are several situations where an estate planning or probate appraisal is necessary:

  1. Probate Proceedings: During probate, an appraisal is often required to establish the value of real estate owned by the deceased for estate tax purposes and asset distribution.

  2. Estate Tax Filings: The IRS requires an accurate valuation of the deceased's real estate holdings to determine any applicable estate taxes. Our appraisals meet all IRS standards.

  3. Trust and Estate Planning: When creating or updating a trust, a current appraisal provides a clear understanding of the property’s value, helping in making informed decisions.

  4. Dividing Assets Among Heirs: If multiple heirs are involved, an appraisal ensures the property is divided fairly based on its market value, minimizing disputes.

  5. Dispute Resolution: In cases where disputes arise over the value of the property, an independent appraisal provides a neutral, third-party valuation to help resolve conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the difference between a date of death appraisal and a current market value appraisal?
    A date of death appraisal determines the property's value as of the date the property owner passed away, while a current market value appraisal reflects the property’s current worth.

  2. How long does an estate appraisal take?
    Most estate appraisals are completed within 5-7 business days, depending on the complexity and type of property involved.

  3. Are your appraisals accepted by courts and the IRS?
    Yes, our appraisals comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and are accepted by courts, attorneys, and the IRS for estate and probate matters.

  4. What is the cost of an estate or probate appraisal?
    The cost varies based on the type and size of the property. Please contact us for a personalized quote.

  5. Can you provide an appraisal for multiple properties in an estate?
    Yes, we can appraise multiple properties within an estate, providing comprehensive reports for each to ensure thorough documentation.

Contact Us

At Funkhouser Appraisal Services, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and probate with professionalism and care. Our detailed and accurate appraisals provide the foundation needed for fair distribution and compliance with legal requirements. Contact us today to schedule an appraisal or to learn more about how we can assist you in managing estate and probate matters. Our team is ready to support you through every step of the process.