A Different Kind of Appraisal — Built for People, Not Lenders
Most appraisals are written for banks. Ours are written for the people who actually have to read them — the families, attorneys, CPAs, judges, and trustees who need a property value they can understand and defend. CA-Appraiser.com is the California practice of certified appraiser Brian Ward, and every report is prepared to be clear, logical, and able to withstand scrutiny from the IRS, opposing counsel, and the courts.
We focus exclusively on valuations not tied to a mortgage: settling an estate, dividing property in a divorce, establishing a date-of-death value for a step-up in basis, supporting a bankruptcy filing, or simply knowing what a home is truly worth before you buy or sell. Your fee is quoted up front, and the appraiser who answers your questions is the same one who signs your report.
What We Appraise For
Date of Death & Step-Up
Retrospective valuations dated to the date of passing for IRS step-up in basis, estate tax, probate, and trust administration.
Learn moreDivorce
Neutral, defensible valuations for equitable division, with a two-party option so both spouses share one impartial report.
Learn moreBankruptcy
Court-ready property valuations for Chapter 7, 11, and 13 filings that hold up before the trustee and the court.
Learn moreEstate & Trust
Fair market valuations for probate, trust funding, estate planning, and equitable distribution among heirs.
Learn moreProposition 19 Transfers
Valuations that help families understand reassessment exposure when inherited California property changes hands.
Learn moreExpert Witness & Litigation
Qualified testimony, appraisal review, and litigation-ready reports for contested valuation matters.
Learn moreWhy Clients Choose Us
Detailed, clearly written analysis designed to satisfy attorneys, judges, the IRS, and opposing counsel — not just check a box.
No call centers and no trainees. The certified appraiser who prepares your report is the person you reach with questions.
Desktop reports from $299. Your exact fee is quoted before you commit — no surprises, no pressure.
22 years and more than 7,000 appraisals across California's residential markets.
If we don't believe we can produce a credible valuation for your situation, we'll tell you and decline the assignment.
In-person service in San Diego and Riverside Counties, desktop appraisals everywhere else in California.