What is Probate?
Probate property sales involve a unique legal process. When a homeowner dies without placing the property in a trust or naming a beneficiary with survivorship rights, the property enters probate. This process, typically held in the county where the property is located, involves a court determining rightful ownership based on the will, if available.
Unlike traditional sales, probate transactions are managed by attorneys and specialized agents, with proceeds going to beneficiaries. Legal guidance is essential to ensure compliance and a smooth sale.
How does a Lawyer help?
A probate attorney helps guide executors and beneficiaries through the legal process of settling an estate. Their services include identifying assets, locating heirs, collecting life insurance, arranging property appraisals, and handling debts and taxes. They also prepare court filings, resolve disputes, and ensure assets are legally transferred to beneficiaries.
How can a Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES)® help?
Navigating the sale of a probate property can be complex and emotional. A Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES®) brings the expertise and sensitivity needed to guide families through this process with confidence.
While probate attorneys handle legal matters, CPRES® agents manage the sale—accurately pricing the property, marketing it to the right buyers, and facilitating a smooth transaction. Whether selling on the open market or through auction, experienced probate agents know how to attract serious, often all-cash buyers who value quick, clean closings.
Ethical agents work through professional networks, not directly with grieving families, and aim to maximize the estate’s value. By generating interest and competition, they often help increase returns for beneficiaries—providing both financial relief and peace of mind.
