Losing a loved one, whether expected or suddenly, is not only difficult on your heart but can leave you feeling lost with all the "things" to handle afterwards. Even if a will is left behind, sometimes probate is necessary, especially if assets were held solely in the name of the deceased.
A good estate attorney can help with estate planning ahead of time that will minimize the challenges of dealing with debts and assets after a loved one passes. When your loved one leaves behind real estate, there are often many questions as to how to handle the sale of the property. These are the questions we have encountered from our clients...
Do I need to clean out the entire house? Yes and no...
The first step would be to go through the home of your loved one and find personal belongings that you want to keep. Jewelry, photos, books, etc. are items you will want to remove first. Then you have several options after this stage. If the home is in good, saleable condition, an estate sale can be held to empty the rest of the belongings. There are companies that can handle the entire estae sale for start to finish. Then the home should be inspected for any needed repairs. Once the home has been cleared, if it is in probate. to be sold, it can then be listed and marketed.
Do I have to renovate the home?
Another good option for homes in need of major renovations or repairs is to sell to an investor. This will require the least money upfront and as much or as little can be removed from the home as you want. While this yields a lower profit, it may also make sense for out of town owners or ones that just are not able and/ or willing to do major work on the property.
Do I need to keep paying the pool guy? the gardener?
One important thing to remember is upkeep. It is vitally important that during this whole process, the property is kept in good repair. That may entail paying the gardener, pest control, pool service, winterizing the home for those in cold climates, etc. Failing to maintain the home could cost much more down the road to correct problems.
Having a good estate attorney along with an agent that specializes in the area are a solid way to minimize the bumps through this arduous and emotion filled process.
Above AND Beyond Miami can help with selling homes left in an estate. As a full service, concierge firm we can help with estate sales, home preparations and repairs, have a fully certified Probate specialist, and of course when the time comes get the home SOLD.
This is a link to an overview of the probate process.
https://www.thebalance.com/what-is-probate-3505244