Best Practices · Personal Property Documentation
What Goes Into a Complete Arizona Probate Personal Property Inventory
From household furnishings to vehicles to jewelry and fine art — a complete guide to what must be documented in an Arizona probate personal property inventory and how to value each category under A.R.S. § 14-3706.
The Legal Standard: Reasonable Detail and Fair Market Value
Under A.R.S. § 14-3706, the inventory must list all personal property with ‘reasonable detail’ and assign a fair market value to each item as of the date of the decedent’s death. Fair market value means what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller — not sentimental value, not replacement cost, and not what was originally paid.
The goal of ‘reasonable detail’ is to clearly identify each item so it cannot be confused with another. Rather than ‘furniture,’ document ‘Oak dining table, 72 inches, with 6 matching chairs, manufactured circa 2010, estimated FMV $450.’
Household Furnishings and Personal Effects
Standard household items — furniture, appliances, clothing, kitchenware, tools — are typically the largest category by count. Group low-value items by room where appropriate. High-value items (antiques, designer furniture, art) require individual line items.
Documentation tip: Photograph each room before any items are moved. Walk through systematically, room by room, noting items and estimated values. The Maricopa County Superior Court explicitly recommends photographing or videotaping all personal property.
Vehicles, Watercraft, and Recreational Vehicles
All motorized vehicles — cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, RVs — must be individually inventoried. For each vehicle, document:
- Year, make, model, and VIN
- Kelley Blue Book fair market value as of the date of death
- Any outstanding loans or liens
- Whether titled in the decedent’s sole name, jointly, or otherwise
Jewelry, Art, Collectibles, and High-Value Items
Items with potentially significant value warrant careful attention. For jewelry, art, antiques, coin collections, firearms, or other collectibles, consider whether a formal appraisal is warranted. Under A.R.S. § 14-3707, a personal representative may employ appraisers when appropriate.
If formal appraisal is not done, document these items with photographs, detailed descriptions, and a reasonable market estimate — and note that the value is an estimate. Formal appraisal may be done later if needed.
Community vs. Separate Property
Each item in the inventory must be designated as either community property (owned jointly with the surviving spouse) or separate property (owned solely by the decedent). This distinction has significant legal implications for distribution and creditor claims.
In Arizona, property acquired during marriage is generally community property. Property brought into the marriage, inherited individually, or received as a gift is generally separate property. When in doubt, consult with the probate attorney.
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