ESTATE & PROBATE
Farm Equipment Appraisal for Probate
Farm equipment appraisal services for probate, covering date-of-death fair market value, estate settlement, and equitable distribution among heirs. Harvest Equipment Appraisals prepares USPAP-compliant probate reports on tractors, combines, and agricultural machinery nationwide.
PROBATE REQUIREMENTS
Farm Equipment Appraisal Requirements for Probate Executors
Our reports give estate representatives documented, date-of-death values that satisfy probate courts, support estate tax filings, and hold up if heirs or the IRS question the numbers.
Date-of-Death Valuation
We value equipment at fair market value as of the decedent's date of death, the basis probate courts and the IRS require for estate inventories.
USPAP Compliance
Every report is prepared in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, giving executors a defensible, standards-compliant valuation.
Estate Tax Support
Values are documented to meet the requirements of IRS Form 706 for estates that must file, with methodology that supports a stepped-up cost basis.
Court-Ready Report Format
A professional report with photos, specifications, and market comparables, formatted for the estate inventory and probate filings.
ASSET CLASSES
Types of Farm Equipment We Appraise for Estate Settlement
We value the full range of agricultural machinery that appears in farm estates, from primary tillage through harvest.
Tractors & Power Units
- Row-crop tractors
- Utility tractors
- Four-wheel-drive and track tractors
Harvesting Equipment
- Combines
- Grain and corn heads
- Forage harvesters and windrowers
Tillage & Planting
- Planters and seed drills
- Tillage implements
- Sprayers and applicators
Irrigation & Specialty
- Center-pivot irrigation systems
- Grain bins and augers
- Specialty ag machinery
PROBATE VALUATION
Our Farm Equipment Appraisal Process for Probate
- 01
Request & Estate Details
Share the equipment list, the date of death, and any estate or court requirements so we can confirm the scope and a fixed fee before work begins.
- 02
Desktop or On-Site Inspection
We complete a desktop review for well-documented equipment, or a full on-site inspection for older or specialized machinery, with condition assessment and photographic documentation.
- 03
Retrospective Market Analysis
Our appraisers research values as of the date of death using auction results, dealer listings, and regional sales data specific to the make, model, and condition.
- 04
Certified Report Delivered
A USPAP-compliant appraisal report is delivered for the estate inventory, executor, and probate court, typically within 3-5 business days.
CREDENTIALS
Certified Agricultural Equipment Appraisers
Our appraisers hold credentials with leading agricultural and machinery appraisal organizations, so probate valuations meet the standards executors, attorneys, and courts expect.
ASA
USPAP
CAGA
COMMON QUESTIONS
Common Farm Equipment Appraisal Questions for Probate
What date is used to value farm equipment for probate?
Farm equipment in a probate estate is valued at its fair market value as of the decedent's date of death. For estates that file an estate tax return, an alternate valuation date six months after the date of death may apply. We prepare retrospective valuations that document the equipment's condition and market value as of the relevant date.
Why does a farm estate need an equipment appraisal?
A defensible appraisal supports the estate inventory the probate court requires, provides the values needed for equitable distribution among heirs, and establishes the stepped-up cost basis that reduces future capital-gains exposure when equipment is sold. It also documents the values used on any required estate tax filing.
Will the appraisal meet IRS estate tax requirements?
Yes. Our reports are prepared in accordance with USPAP and documented to meet the requirements of IRS Form 706 for estates that must file, so the values are supported by market evidence and a clear methodology.
Can you complete a probate appraisal after the owner has passed away?
Yes. A retrospective appraisal establishes the fair market value as of the date of death even when the work is performed later. We can also work from records and photographs when equipment has already been moved or the estate is settling remotely. See our online farm equipment appraisal option.
How is fair market value determined for probate purposes?
Fair market value reflects the price the equipment would bring between a willing buyer and seller. Our appraisers analyze auction results, dealer listings, and regional sales data for the specific make, model, hours, and condition, then document each comparable so the value is transparent. See our pricing page for current rates.
Get your farm equipment valued for probate.
USPAP-compliant, date-of-death valuations ready for the estate inventory and probate court, delivered in 3-5 business days.