The Overlooked Key to Estate Planning: Real Estate Appraisals

When it comes to estate planning, most people think of attorneys, wills, and trust documents. But there’s a critical piece that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the value of your real estate.

Whether you're a homeowner planning ahead or an attorney helping clients protect their legacy, a professional appraisal is one of the smartest steps you can take.

Why Appraisals Matter in Estate Planning

Real estate is often the largest asset in an estate. Knowing what it's actually worth—not what Zillow says or what you “think” it’s worth—can make a world of difference when it comes to:

• Fair distribution of assets

• Estate and inheritance taxes

• Avoiding family disputes

• IRS compliance

A reliable, third-party valuation gives everyone a solid number to work from—and that clarity is worth its weight in gold.

When Should You Get an Estate Appraisal?

• During the estate planning process – to establish current market value for proactive wealth management

• After the death of a property owner – for date-of-death valuations, often needed for probate or tax purposes

• Before gifting or transferring property – to document value for tax reporting or IRS compliance

  
  

Homeowners: Think Ahead, Not Just About Now

Getting a real estate appraisal as part of your estate planning might feel like a “later” task—but doing it now can save your loved ones time, stress, and money in the future. It also helps you make more informed decisions about how to pass down your property.

At Efird Appraisals, we specialize in estate-related valuations. We work with families and attorneys across North Carolina and South Carolina to provide appraisals that are clear, credible, and IRS-ready.

If you’re planning for the future, don’t leave real estate values to chance. Let’s talk about how a professional appraisal can support a smoother estate process—for everyone involved.