Settling an Estate? Why a Certified Real Estate Appraisal Is Crucial.
When a loved one passes, the emotional toll is heavy — and unfortunately, legal and financial responsibilities follow quickly behind. One of the most important (and often overlooked) steps in settling an estate is getting a certified home appraisal. Whether you're handling a will, going through probate, or dividing property among heirs, an accurate real estate appraisal for estate purposes ensures everything is handled fairly, legally, and with peace of mind.
What Is an Estate Appraisal?
An estate appraisal is a professional estimate of a property’s fair market value as of a specific date — often the date of death. This is not the same as a tax assessment or a Zillow estimate. A certified real estate appraiser provides a detailed, legally recognized report that is defensible in court, with attorneys, and with the IRS.
Why You Need an Estate Appraisal in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake and the greater Hampton Roads area, families often need appraisals to:
Satisfy probate court requirements
Establish value for estate taxes
Ensure a fair distribution of assets among beneficiaries
Help an executor or attorney make informed decisions
Support a step-up in basis for capital gains tax purposes
If you’re the executor, trustee, or family member responsible for managing an estate, an accurate appraisal can protect you from disputes, audits, or undervaluing a significant asset.
Why Certified Appraisals Matter
A certified appraisal from a qualified professional like CMP Appraisals carries weight with:
Probate courts
Estate attorneys
Accountants and tax professionals
The IRS
Using a real estate agent’s price opinion or online tools won’t hold up legally — and it could cost you in taxes or missed value.
Local Insight Matters
At CMP Appraisals, we specialize in estate and probate appraisals in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, surrounding Hampton Roads region as well as Coastal Carolina through the Outer Banks. With over 20 years of combined experience and deep local market knowledge, we deliver appraisals that are accurate, defensible, and trusted by legal professionals across the region.
When Should You Get an Estate Appraisal?
You should request an appraisal as soon as possible if:
A property is part of a deceased loved one’s estate
You’re entering probate proceedings
You’re preparing to sell inherited property
There’s potential for disputes among heirs
We also offer retrospective appraisals, which estimate the value of a property on a past date — such as the date of death — as required in many estate cases.
Need Help With an Estate Appraisal in Virginia Beach?
CMP Appraisals is here to support you with fast, accurate, and compassionate service. Contact us today to schedule an estate appraisal or to learn more about how we can help you settle a loved one’s estate smoothly and fairly.