Selling an Inherited House
Inheriting a house can come with grief, paperwork and decisions you did not ask for. There is no rush to figure it all out today.
Start with who can sell
Before anyone can sell, it has to be clear who has legal authority. That may depend on the will, the title and whether a probate case is needed. If several relatives inherited together, they generally need to agree on a sale or have a court-appointed representative who can act.
Learn more on our probate page.
Common options
- Keep it as a home or rental, if the numbers work.
- Fix it and list it, which may bring a higher price but takes money and time.
- List it as-is with an agent.
- Sell directly to a buyer like us, without repairs, cleaning or showings.
Taxes
Inherited property often has special tax rules, including how your cost basis is set. See the IRS guidance on gifts and inheritances and talk with a tax professional before you sell.
Belongings and repairs
Many inherited homes still hold a lifetime of belongings. If you sell to us as-is, tell us what you want to keep and what you would rather not deal with, and we will talk through what makes sense.
This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state and city, so please check with a qualified professional about your situation.
Step by Step: Selling an Inherited House
- Find out who has authority. If the house was in a trust, the trustee can usually sell. If it was in the person’s name alone, an executor or administrator may need to be appointed by the probate court first.
- Secure the house. Change the locks, keep insurance active (tell the insurer it is vacant) and keep utilities on enough to prevent damage.
- Gather the paperwork. Death certificate, will or trust, the most recent tax bill, mortgage statements and any utility bills.
- Decide what to keep. Take family items and photos first. When you sell to us, you can leave everything else behind.
- Compare your options. Keeping it as a rental, listing it, or selling as-is. Each has different costs, timelines and work.
- Close with a title company. Proceeds are paid to the estate or the heirs as the paperwork directs.
Costs to Plan For While You Decide
An inherited house costs money every month it sits: property taxes, insurance (vacant-home policies cost more), utilities, lawn care and any mortgage. Older houses also pick up problems when empty, like leaks and break-ins. Write these numbers down so you can compare a quick sale with holding and repairing.
Mistakes We See Heirs Make
- Letting insurance lapse on a vacant house.
- Paying for repairs before deciding whether to sell.
- Signing anything before the right person has legal authority.
- Not getting all heirs to agree early, which can stall a sale for months.
Tax rules for inherited property can be favorable, but they are personal. Ask a tax professional about your situation before you sell.