I’m a Personal Representative for Probate… Now What?
Being named the personal representative (also called an executor or administrator) of an estate can feel overwhelming—especially when there’s real estate involved. If you’re feeling unsure of where to start, you’re not alone. Many families face these exact questions during probate, and I’m here to help you make sense of it all.
Whether you’re thinking about keeping, selling, renting, or renovating the property, your next steps depend on your goals, your responsibilities as a personal representative, and the condition of the home. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Let’s walk through the key decisions and what each option might look like for you.
Step One: Assess the Property
Before making any big decisions, it’s important to evaluate the property itself. Start with these questions:
- What’s the current condition of the home?
- What’s the fair market value?
- Are there any repairs or safety concerns?
- Is the property vacant or occupied?
- What are the holding costs (insurance, utilities, taxes, etc.)?
Getting a clear picture early on helps you understand the home’s potential—whether that means selling quickly or holding for long-term gain.
Option 1: Keeping the Property
If the home holds sentimental value or long-term investment potential, keeping it may be worth considering. But make sure you’re prepared for what that involves. Ask yourself:
- Will I live in the home, or hold it as a second property?
- Am I ready for ongoing maintenance, taxes, and insurance?
- Do I need to refinance or buy out other heirs?
Keeping the home can be a beautiful way to honor a legacy—but only if it aligns with your financial reality and future plans.
Option 2: Selling the Property
Selling is one of the most common outcomes in probate. It allows the estate to distribute funds fairly among heirs and can simplify an otherwise complicated situation. A successful probate sale starts with:
- A market evaluation from a local real estate agent
- Understanding court requirements for probate sales in your state
- Determining whether repairs or cleanouts are needed
- Marketing the property to the right buyer pool
Working with an agent who understands probate makes the process smoother and more profitable. I can help manage clean-outs, prep the property for sale, and coordinate with attorneys or heirs as needed.
Option 3: Renting the Property
If you’re not ready to sell—or want to generate income while the estate is settled—renting might be the right fit. It’s a good way to:
- Cover taxes, insurance, and maintenance
- Retain ownership while building equity
- Delay a sale while markets improve
Keep in mind, managing a rental property comes with responsibilities: tenant screening, maintenance, and legal compliance. A property manager or real estate advisor can help if you decide to go this route.
Option 4: Renovating the Property
Thinking about renovating before selling? It might be a great move if:
- The home is outdated but structurally sound
- You want to attract top-dollar buyers
- You have the budget to cover renovations
Focus on improvements that offer the best return on investment, like kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal. Be sure to check local building codes and timelines—especially if the estate is under a deadline.
Don’t Go It Alone: Consult the Right Professionals
Probate real estate comes with legal, financial, and emotional layers. Lean on a trusted team to help you through it. A few professionals who can make your life easier:
- A probate attorney (to guide legal filings and court requirements)
- A real estate agent experienced in probate sales (like me!)
- A financial advisor or CPA (to explain tax impacts and options)
- A clean-out or estate sale company (to help with belongings)
Serving as a personal representative is a serious responsibility, but you don’t have to shoulder it alone. Whether you decide to keep the home, sell it, rent it, or renovate, I’m here to walk you through your options and help you create a plan that fits your goals and honors your loved one’s legacy.
Have questions or want to talk through your situation? Reach out today—your first step doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be taken.