Before You List: The Smart Step Executors Shouldn’t Skip

If you’ve recently found yourself named as the executor of a loved one’s estate, you may be navigating a whirlwind of emotions, responsibilities, and legal paperwork. Among the many tasks on your list, selling a home is often one of the biggest—and sometimes most complicated—parts of settling an estate.

One term you’ve likely come across is probate. But what exactly is it, and why is it so important in a real estate transaction?

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that confirms a will is valid and gives the executor (that’s you!) the authority to act on behalf of the estate. This includes paying off debts, distributing assets, and yes—selling real estate.

Until probate is granted, even if you’ve been named in the will, you technically don’t have the legal power to sell the home. Most buyers (and their lawyers) will require confirmation that probate has been obtained before they’ll proceed with a purchase.

Why It Matters in Real Estate

From a real estate standpoint, probate isn’t just a formality—it’s a crucial step that ensures everything is done by the book. Without it, the sale of the home could be delayed or even fall through. That’s why, if you’re planning to sell a property as part of an estate, it’s smart to look into probate early in the process.

The Smart Move: Get Ahead of the Paperwork

If you’re the executor, reaching out to a lawyer to start the probate process as soon as possible can save you time, stress, and uncertainty down the road. In some cases, probate can take weeks—or even months—so starting early can help ensure the home is ready to hit the market when the time is right.

Final Thoughts

Selling a home on behalf of someone else is never just a transaction—it’s personal, emotional, and often complex. By understanding the role of probate and planning ahead, you can help the process go more smoothly for everyone involved.

Have questions about selling a home as part of an estate? Our team is here to support you with compassion, clarity, and expert guidance every step of the way.