// deceased estates
Valuing a car for a deceased estate
An executor or administrator needs a defensible value for each vehicle in the estate: for the asset inventory, for probate where it is required, for the estate accounts, and to be fair to beneficiaries. An Online Car Valuation (A$49.95) gives an evidence-backed market value in minutes; a Certified Comprehensive Valuation (A$149.95) gives a signed valuer's report stating the purpose and valuation date.
Why the car needs a proper value
Executors have a duty to account for estate assets at a fair value and to deal with them even-handedly. A vehicle is often the most valuable item after property and superannuation, and it is also the one most likely to be sold or transferred to a family member. A written valuation with evidence protects the executor if a beneficiary later questions the figure, and gives the estate's solicitor or accountant the number they need.
Valuation date
Estate values are usually taken at the date of death. An Online Car Valuation is a market value at the date it is run, which is close enough when it is ordered within a few weeks. If more time has passed, or the solicitor needs the valuation expressly dated at the date of death, choose the Certified Comprehensive Valuation and state the purpose as deceased estate: the valuer prepares the report for that date.
Selling to a beneficiary
When a family member wants to keep the car, the usual approach is to transfer it at market value and adjust that beneficiary's share, or to have them buy it from the estate. Either way everyone needs to agree on one number. An evidence-backed valuation showing the comparable cars currently for sale is the quickest way to get that agreement.
More than one vehicle
Add up to ten vehicles to one order, mixing online and certified services as needed; every vehicle after the first is 10% off. Each vehicle gets its own report.
Tax and transfer
A car is generally exempt from capital gains tax, but the estate still needs the value recorded for its accounts and for any beneficiary who later sells. Transferring registration from a deceased owner is handled by each state's transport authority and usually requires the death certificate and, where probate was granted, the grant. The authority does not need our report, but a buyer or beneficiary often will.
Value a vehicle · from A$49.95Compare the two valuations
Questions
Does probate require a professional car valuation?
Probate applications list estate assets with their values. Many registries accept the executor's reasonable estimate for ordinary cars; a solicitor may ask for an independent valuation for higher-value, modified or disputed vehicles. Check with the estate's solicitor.
The registration has lapsed. Can you still value the car?
Yes, if the plate still exists on the registry record. If the registry cannot find it, our team will contact you and either resolve it or refund the vehicle.
Can the report be addressed to the estate?
The Certified Comprehensive Valuation can state the estate and purpose. The Online Car Valuation is issued to the email address on the order.
How quickly can I get it?
Online: about two minutes after you confirm the vehicle. Certified: within 2 business days of the video inspection.