Trusted support for probate, settlement, and planning.
Estate planning and settlement often require clear, well-supported property valuations. At Stillwater Appraisal Services, we provide professional estate appraisals that meet the needs of families, attorneys, trustees, and financial professionals. With more than a decade of experience serving Central and Eastern Montana, we deliver appraisals that are accurate, confidential, and prepared in compliance with professional standards.
Located in Columbus, MT, our appraisers are Montana natives with strong agricultural backgrounds and a deep understanding of rural real estate markets. Because Montana is a non-disclosure state, reliable property data is not publicly available. That’s why we maintain a sophisticated sales database and work with a trusted network of professionals to ensure each estate appraisal reflects true market conditions.
Why Estate Appraisals Are Needed
Estate appraisals are often required in situations where accuracy and fairness are essential:
- Estate Settlement & Probate – Establishing property value for division among heirs.
- IRS Reporting – Meeting federal requirements for estate and inheritance taxes.
- Trust Management – Providing valuations for trustees overseeing estate property.
- Equitable Division – Supporting family decisions in distributing land or assets.
- Long-Term Planning – Helping individuals and families plan for the future.
What We Evaluate
Our estate appraisals consider all factors that influence property value, including:
- Property Type – Ranches, farms, rural residences, or recreational holdings.
- Land Use & Improvements – Agricultural production, structures, and facilities.
- Market Conditions – Local and regional demand for comparable properties.
- Location & Access – The role of geography, infrastructure, and services.
- Unique Features – Water rights, wildlife habitat, or recreational amenities.
Every report is tailored to the specific property, ensuring heirs, attorneys, and financial professionals receive valuations that stand up to scrutiny.
Types of Estate Appraisals We Provide
- Ranches and farm operations
- Recreational and rural residential properties
- Multi-parcel estates
- Agricultural estates with mixed land use
- Properties requiring IRS-standard valuations
Our Reports
We offer a range of report formats to meet estate requirements, including:
- Narrative Reports – Comprehensive reports with supporting data and analysis.
- Restricted Reports – Concise reports for specific, limited-use purposes.
- IRS-Compliant Reports – Valuations prepared to meet federal reporting standards.
All appraisals are prepared in compliance with USPAP.
Trusted, Confidential Guidance
Estate matters often involve sensitive circumstances. We approach every assignment with professionalism, discretion, and respect for the families we serve. Our appraisers combine local expertise with diligent research to deliver reports that provide clarity in times when it’s needed most.
At Stillwater Appraisal Services, we take pride in offering estate appraisals that are accurate, confidential, and built on integrity — helping families, attorneys, and trustees make decisions with confidence.