Selling a Home in an Estate: A Step-by-Step Guide
Selling a Home in an Estate: A Step-by-Step Guide for Executors
Selling a property on behalf of an estate is a significant responsibility that often comes during a difficult and emotional time. The process involves unique legal steps and practical challenges that differ from a typical home sale. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview to help you navigate your duties as an executor with confidence and clarity.
Step 1: Secure the Property & Understand the Will
Your first responsibility is to protect the asset. This includes securing the property by changing the locks, ensuring all utilities remain on, and confirming that the home’s insurance is up to date and reflects that the property is vacant. At the same time, you and your lawyer will review the deceased’s will to confirm you are the legal representative and to understand any specific instructions regarding the property.
Step 2: Assemble Your Professional Team
You don’t have to do this alone. In fact, you will need a team of professionals. At a minimum, you will need:
- An Estate Lawyer: They will guide you through the legal requirements, including the application for probate.
- A Realtor® with Estate Sale Experience: A real estate agent who specializes in estate sales can provide invaluable guidance on pricing, preparing the property, and navigating the unique negotiations involved.
Step 3: Apply for the Grant of Probate
This is the most critical legal step. In Alberta, you cannot legally list or sell the property until the court has formally validated the will and granted you the authority to act as the executor. This is known as the Grant of Probate.
Learn more in our detailed Guide to Probate & Real Estate →
Step 4: Prepare the Property for Sale
Preparing an estate property often involves more than just cleaning. It typically includes the difficult task of sorting through personal belongings and deciding what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. You’ll also need to assess the home’s condition and decide which, if any, repairs or improvements are necessary to maximize its value.
Use our Checklist for Preparing an Estate Property for Sale →
Step 5: Strategic Pricing & Marketing
Pricing an estate home requires careful analysis. The value is based on the current market, not sentimental value. We will prepare a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to determine the most effective list price. Our marketing will then sensitively and professionally present the property to the widest possible audience of qualified buyers.
Step 6: Navigate Offers & Close the Sale
Once we receive offers, we will review them with you to ensure the terms meet the estate’s needs. After an offer is accepted and all conditions are met, your lawyer will handle the closing process, ensuring all legal requirements are satisfied and that the proceeds are deposited into the estate’s account.
We understand the complexities and sensitivities of an estate sale. If you are an executor and need a compassionate, professional partner to guide you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
For a complete overview of the topic, return to the Ultimate Guide to Estate Sales in Edmonton.
Common Seller FAQs
If you’re ready to sell or have more questions, you can contact us here.
What is the step-by-step process for selling a home that is part of an estate?
To sell an estate home, you must first obtain legal authorization (like Letters Testamentary or an Order for Extrajudicial Settlement), prepare the property, and then list and market it.
Who has the legal authority to list and sell the estate property?
The legal authority to list and sell estate property rests with either the court-appointed executor or administrator, or if there is no judicial process, then with all the heirs acting jointly. If the heirs are not acting jointly, they must have a written Special Power of Attorney to authorize someone, such as a real estate broker, to act on their behalf.
How do I determine the market value of an estate property?
To determine a property’s market value, you can get a professional appraisal or a free market analysis from a real estate agent. You can also research comparable properties that have recently sold in the same area and adjust their prices based on differences in size, condition, and features.
How do outstanding mortgages, liens or debts affect the sale of the estate property?
Outstanding mortgages, liens, and debts significantly impact the sale of estate property, primarily because these encumbrances must typically be settled before the new owner receives a clear title . This ensures that the buyer is not responsible for the previous owner’s financial obligations.Â
Let’s Build Your Winning Strategy
This guide has given you the knowledge. Now, let’s turn that knowledge into a successful home purchase. As your Edmonton real estate advisor, my job is to provide the hyper-local data and expert advice needed to secure the right home at the right price.
