Trust, Estate, & Divorce Appraisals in Four Steps Ebert Appraisals continues to assist families, estates, and trusts, from throughout the country, due to our extensive research and thorough valuations of properties throughout the Southern California region. Often, when a family member passes away, the heirs have to arrange everything in an unknown city. Our firm gets many referral calls from trustees and surviving spouses, as attorneys, CPA’s and Realtors know that we have a compassionate and court-approved service that can make things easier on the family. Contact us as soon as is possible. Don't worry yet about getting things in shape or fixed up.We can help you through this process. Items to keep in mind: 1. Resident did not keep up the house. The home had served the owner well, but in their later years, they just did not see the things needed. Additionally, there are often a lot of mementos, knickknacks, and even stacks of newspapers, furniture and other things that need to be hauled away. It is quite common for the home to be in need of extensive maintenance and repairs, even a new roof, as well as paint and other items. 2. It is very common for the house to be worn down and cluttered, and that does not reflect on you, the executor. We see a lot of this, and it is not necessary to apologize, or feel embarrassed. In our twilight years, we may be the same. I tell folks that I have a special camera that does not see the clutter, or the personal effects. This is an excellent time to start your list of needed items, as opposed to just desired items. For instance, it is very important to paint the exterior, to keep moisture and weather from further damage, but the inside may be able to wait. 3. Alert the professionals to make lists of needed items. Of course, you want us to point out and identify all of the repair and maintenance issues, promptly. These comprehensive inspections can point out water leaks, roofing issues, landscape concerns, and other issues that you will want to be aware of. 4. We can refer you to other local professionals, like attorneys, accountants, maintenance and repair professionals, and real estate professionals in all areas of town. Keep in mind, among the further effects of the recession, is the overwhelming amount of small business closings, down-sizing and layoffs, in all industries. While public statistics state California’s unemployment rate is at 10%, we all know it is closer to 20%, or one out of five. Those formal numbers do not include the folks who are working part time or under employed at places like Starbucks, or the hardware store, just to get out of the house. Many service companies are closing or downsizing, including attorneys and accounting firms. We can help you find these needed professionals easily, without having to call 20-30 places. Keep in mind that we have seen over 10,000 homes, in all states and conditions. Your dedication to serving your extended family's needs, is to be commended. We are all proud of you for agreeing to step up to serve. But do not do this from love or resposibility alone. Seriously consider hiring a professional to be an administrator on your behalf, it often saves money and family relationships, in the long run. That is something you cannot replace. James Ebert James@eas2.com 310.505.5916