
Retrospective
Valuations
Backdated Property Valuations for Tax, Legal, Estate & Insurance Purposes
A retrospective valuation (also known as a backdated or historical property valuation) determines the market value of a property as at a specific date in the past, rather than today’s value.
These valuations are prepared by qualified, independent valuers and are commonly required for Capital Gains Tax (CGT), deceased estates, family law matters, insurance claims, and legal or compliance purposes.
At Propti, we provide clear, defensible retrospective valuation reports designed to meet the requirements of accountants, solicitors, courts, insurers and the ATO.
What Is a Retrospective Valuation?
A retrospective valuation is a professional assessment of what a property would reasonably have sold for on a nominated historical date, based on:
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historical comparable sales
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market conditions at that time
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the property’s condition, improvements and zoning as at the nominated date
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accepted valuation methodologies
Unlike online estimates or automated tools, a retrospective valuation is a formal report prepared by a certified valuer and supported by evidence.
These valuations are sometimes referred to as:
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historical property valuations
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backdated valuations
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retrospective market valuations
When Do You Need a Retrospective Valuation?
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
Often required when:
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a property changes from principal place of residence to investment
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calculating cost base after inheritance
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establishing market value at a past tax event
A properly prepared retrospective valuation helps ensure accurate CGT calculations and reduces the risk of disputes with the ATO.
Deceased Estates & Probate
Executors frequently require a property’s value at the date of death to:
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distribute assets fairly
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calculate tax obligations
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support probate and estate administration
Family Law & Relationship Breakdown
Retrospective valuations may be required to determine a property’s value:
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at separation
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at acquisition
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before or after renovations
These reports can be relied upon during negotiations, mediation or court proceedings.
Insurance Claims & Disputes
When a claim relates to a past event, insurers or legal representatives may require evidence of the property’s value at the time of loss or damage.
Litigation & Legal Matters
Courts and regulators often require independent, expert valuation evidence when assessing historical property values.
What’s Included in a Propti Retrospective Valuation Report?
Every report includes:
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assessment by a qualified, certified valuer
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analysis of relevant historical comparable sales
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explanation of market conditions at the nominated date
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a clearly stated market value as at that date
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full valuation methodology and reasoning
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a professional PDF report suitable for ATO, legal and audit purposes
Our reports are designed to be clear, defensible and practical, not overly technical or ambiguous.
How Far Back Can a Retrospective Valuation Go?
Retrospective valuations can be prepared many years after the valuation date, provided sufficient historical data is available.
Valuers rely on archived sales records, market data and supporting documentation to reconstruct market conditions accurately.
What Information Do You Need to Provide?
To ensure accuracy, we may ask for:
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the property address
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the specific historical date required
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any photos, plans or renovation details relevant at that time
If documentation is limited, our valuers can still proceed using professional judgement and available market evidence.
Are Retrospective Valuations Accepted by the ATO?
Yes. When prepared by a qualified independent valuer using accepted valuation standards and supported by evidence, retrospective valuations are commonly relied upon by accountants and submitted to the ATO.
AI, Data & Retrospective Valuations
Modern valuation analysis increasingly uses advanced data tools and AI-assisted research to analyse historical sales trends and market movements.
However, AI does not replace certified valuers.
A retrospective valuation must still be prepared and signed by a qualified professional to be legally and commercially relied upon.
At Propti, technology enhances accuracy — professional judgement delivers reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date should I use for a retrospective valuation?
Use the date relevant to your situation, such as:
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date of death
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date first rented
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separation date
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acquisition date
Your accountant or solicitor can usually confirm the correct date.
How long does a retrospective valuation take?
Most reports are completed within 2–5 business days, depending on location, complexity and how far back the valuation date is.
Can I use an online estimate instead?
No. Online estimates and automated tools are not accepted for tax, legal or compliance purposes.
Is a retrospective valuation different from a current valuation?
Yes. A current valuation assesses today’s market value. A retrospective valuation reconstructs the market as it existed at a specific point in the past.
Get a Retrospective Valuation
To get started, simply provide:
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the property address
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the historical valuation date
We’ll arrange a certified retrospective valuation suitable for tax, legal, estate or insurance use.
Request a Quote or Contact Propti to Book a Retrospective Valuation