How to Sell an Inherited House: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
Inheriting a house can be a gift—but it can also come with emotional, legal, and financial decisions you may not be prepared for. Whether the home was passed down from a parent, relative, or loved one, it’s important to understand your options and the process for selling an inherited property.
Here’s what you need to know to sell an inherited home with confidence and clarity.
1. Understand the Legal Process: Probate or Not?
The first step is determining whether the home needs to go through probate, a legal process that validates the will and transfers property ownership.
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If the home is held in a trust: You can typically avoid probate and transfer ownership faster.
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If there’s a will (or no will): Probate is usually required before you can legally sell the property. This process can take weeks or months depending on the complexity of the estate.
Tip: It’s best to consult a probate attorney early to make sure everything is handled properly.
2. Determine Ownership and Get the Title Cleared
You can’t sell a home until you have clear title and legal authority. This may involve:
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Providing a death certificate and will/trust documents
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Confirming your status as executor, trustee, or heir
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Filing paperwork with the county or court (if in probate)
3. Assess the Home’s Condition and Value
Inherited homes are often older, outdated, or even in disrepair—especially if the previous owner lived in it for many years. You’ll want to:
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Get a professional market valuation from a real estate expert
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Evaluate what repairs, if any, are worth doing
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Decide whether to sell as-is or make light improvements to attract more buyers
Every situation is different—some homes are best sold to cash buyers or investors, while others may benefit from minor upgrades and full marketing exposure.
4. Understand Tax Implications
Most heirs qualify for a stepped-up tax basis, meaning you're only taxed on the value gained since the date of inheritance—not since the original purchase. Still, there may be:
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Capital gains taxes if the home has appreciated significantly
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Property taxes depending on your state’s reassessment rules
Tip: Speak with a CPA or tax advisor before listing the home.
5. Decide How You Want to Sell
You have a few options:
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List the home traditionally on the open market for top dollar (best for move-in ready or lightly outdated homes)
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Sell to an investor or cash buyer for speed and convenience (ideal for distressed, vacant, or hoarder homes)
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Sell “as is” if you want to avoid repairs, staging, and showings
An experienced real estate agent can help you evaluate your best path forward—based on the home’s condition, your timeline, and market demand.
6. Work With a Realtor Who Understands Inherited Property Sales
Selling an inherited house isn’t like a standard real estate deal. There may be multiple heirs, probate timelines, emotional decisions, and legal considerations. You need a realtor who:
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Has experience with probate and inherited properties
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Can navigate sensitive family dynamics
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Offers a full-service approach—clean-out, pricing, marketing, and closing
Bottom Line:
Selling an inherited home can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time—but you don’t have to handle it alone. With the right guidance and support, you can sell the home efficiently, respectfully, and in a way that honors your loved one’s legacy.
Need help selling an inherited home in Sacramento or the surrounding area?
Contact Randall Ortiz at Zitro Real Estate Services today for a no-obligation consultation. I’ll walk you through your options, handle the details, and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
