Appraisal for an estate or probate
When someone dies, Canadian tax rules generally treat their property as sold at fair market value immediately before death. An appraisal as of the date of death supports the value on the final tax return and helps the executor divide or sell the estate fairly.
Appraisal for capital gains
A value at a particular date can be needed to work out a capital gain, for example when a property changes use or when a cottage or rental is transferred to family. Your accountant will tell you which date the value is needed for.
What a retrospective appraisal is
A retrospective appraisal gives the value as of a date in the past. The appraiser uses sales from around that date and records of the property’s condition at the time.
Order an estate appraisal through AppraisalDesk
Tell us the address, the date or dates the value is needed for, and who the report is for. We assign a qualified local appraiser, and the executor, lawyer or accountant can follow the order and download the report.
- See the price before you place the order
- Your order is assigned to a qualified local appraiser
- Real-time updates by text and email, and online order tracking
- The borrower can pay online by secure link
- Download the report online and message the appraiser
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appraisal for probate in Canada?
Often, yes. Executors commonly need a supportable value of real estate at the date of death for probate and the final tax return. Your lawyer or accountant can confirm what is required.
How much does an estate appraisal cost?
Similar to or a little more than a standard appraisal, since retrospective research takes extra time. Each property and file is different, and you see the price before you order.
Can I get an appraisal for a past date?
Yes. A retrospective appraisal values the property as of a past date, using sales and records from around that time.
Can the appraiser value a property that has changed since the date of death?
Yes. They inspect it as it is now and use photos, listings and other records to understand its condition at the earlier date.