First Steps After You Inherit a Property
Inheriting a home can feel like a gift and a to-do list at the same time. Before thinking about listing photos or paint colors, confirm who legally owns the property and who can sign at closing. If there is a will, the executor typically manages the process; if there isn’t, the court appoints an administrator. Once you know who has signing authority, you can choose the quickest path to sell. For a start-to-finish overview, see our How to Sell Your House guide.
Probate Basics
When probate is required
Probate is the court process that transfers ownership from the deceased to heirs or the estate. If the home was held solely in the decedent’s name, probate is usually required before the property can be sold. If it was in a trust or had survivorship rights, you could bypass most of the probate process.
Documents you’ll likely need
Expect to gather the death certificate, will (if any), letters of testamentary/administration, and any mortgage or lien information. A local closing attorney can coordinate title, liens, and payoff statements once you choose a selling option.
Your Selling Options (From Fastest to Most Involved)
Direct, as-is cash sale
If you want to settle the estate quickly and avoid repairs, a direct sale to a local buyer is the cleanest route. You skip showings, inspection punch lists, and lender delays. The buyer factors repairs into the offer and closes on your timeline—even while probate is in progress, when permitted. Start with a no-obligation number here: Get a Cash Offer.
List on the open market (MLS)
A traditional listing can work well for move-in-ready homes, but it requires prep: cleaning, updates, professional photos, and open houses. You also navigate inspection renegotiations and buyer financing. If multiple heirs live out of town or the house requires repairs, this process can take months.
Estate or short sale (special cases)
If the mortgage balance exceeds the property’s value, a short sale involves the lender accepting less than the full payoff. It’s paperwork-heavy and slower, but sometimes necessary. A solid cash offer can still be beneficial by providing the lender with a reliable contract and closing date.
How to Keep Heirs on the Same Page
Clarify goals and timelines.
Decide early: maximize price or minimize time and hassle? Shared expectations reduce friction. If speed and simplicity matter most, request a transparent, line-item offer and compare net proceeds to a projected MLS scenario.
Put the numbers in writing.
Request a simple net sheet that includes the offer price, covered fees, mortgage payoff, and expected proceeds. When everyone can see the math, decisions get easier. Want references? Read seller experiences on our Reviews page.
Appoint a single point of contact.
Even when there are multiple heirs, choose one executor or representative to coordinate walkthroughs, signatures, and communication. It streamlines everything with the attorney and title company.
What Happens to “Stuff” in the House?
Keep, donate, or sell.
Heirlooms and documents should be removed early. For the rest, you can donate, hire a clean-out crew, or sell the property “as-is” and leave unwanted items for the buyer to handle after closing. If you’re aiming for the least hassle, mention a “leave-behind” arrangement when you request your offer.
How a Cash Offer Is Calculated for an Inherited Home
After-Repair Value (ARV)
We begin by estimating what the home could sell for once it is fully updated. From ARV, we subtract renovation and holding costs, then a reasonable margin for risk.
Condition and timeline
Estate properties often have deferred maintenance. Roof age, systems, and cosmetic updates influence the number. Your preferred closing date matters too—so you can settle the estate, divide proceeds, and move on.
Local comparables
Neighborhood sales keep valuations realistic. If you would like to review comps or discuss scenarios, please get in touch with us via the ‘Contact Us‘ section.
Taxes and Proceeds: What to Expect
Step-up in basis (general concept)
Heirs often receive a “step-up” in tax basis to the home’s value at the date of death, which can reduce capital gains if you sell shortly after. Your situation is unique—speak with a tax professional for advice tailored to your estate.
Dividing the funds
At closing, the attorney or title company wires proceeds according to the court order or estate documents. If you need to coordinate multiple wires to different heirs, please notify the closing team in advance.
A Streamlined Timeline You Can Actually Follow
One conversation, one walkthrough
Share the address, condition, and probate status. We’ll conduct a quick walkthrough—virtual or in-person—to confirm the repairs. No open houses required.
Clear, no-pressure offer
You’ll see an offer with no agent commissions and a breakdown of what fees we cover. If it works, you choose the date. We coordinate with the probate attorney so the closing is court-ready. Learn more about how we operate on our About Us page.
Close on your schedule.
Whether you need a fast close to stop carrying costs or extra time to sort belongings, the date is flexible. We buy across the state; confirm coverage here: Service Area.
When Listing Still Makes Sense
Homes are already updated and vacant.
If the property is turnkey and you’re not in a hurry, the open market might deliver a higher top-line price. Just remember to factor in commissions, repairs, and extra months of taxes and insurance when calculating your net.
Unique homes in premium locations
Some properties stand out on the MLS due to their land, schools, or architectural character. We’re happy to provide a cash offer that you can use as a baseline while you explore listing options.
Ready to Settle the Estate Without the Headaches?
If you inherited a house and want a simple, certain exit, request a fair, as-is offer today. We’ll explain the numbers, coordinate with the attorney, and assist you in selecting a closing date that aligns with your family’s plan. Start here: Get a Cash Offer.