Questions about selling an inherited house

Often yes, once a personal representative has been appointed. Being named in a will is not the same as having that authority. Who can sign the deed explains the difference on both sides of the state line.

Usually the personal representative. If the house passed by a recorded transfer-on-death deed or by joint ownership, the survivor or the named person may be the one. A title company decides what paperwork it needs, so ask it early.

No. A number is only information, and it can help the family decide. A sale is different. If the owners disagree, one co-owner can go to court over a shared house. Read when heirs disagree before anyone signs.

No. We buy the house as it sits, with the furniture, the clutter and the repairs it needs. Take what matters to the family and leave the rest.

Not on a sale to us. Closing costs can still exist, so we do not say there are none. Ask us to list the ones that apply to your house.

The person who calls you back. You get the number in writing, with the math explained, so you can show it to the other heirs or to your attorney.

You do. The sale closes through a title company, and the date is the one the family chooses.

The state may have a claim that can reach the house, even when it passes outside probate. Minnesota says a transfer-on-death beneficiary takes the house subject to state and county claims. Read Medical Assistance and the house before you assume it is clear.

Heirs generally get a short window after the lender sends its notice, set by the lender and the loan. The consumer finance agency says it is 30 days to buy, sell or turn the home over, with a possible extension. Call the lender and read your notice.

Yes, usually: property tax, insurance, utilities and upkeep. Duluth also has a vacant building fee that may or may not apply to your house, which the cost of waiting page explains.

Often little, because the tax basis of inherited property is generally its value on the date of death. Wisconsin also says inherited real estate is not income tax at the time you inherit it. A tax professional should look at your case.

Sometimes it is not. If the house is in good shape and the family can wait, a listing may bring more. A sale to us is for people who want a date they control and no repairs or showings. Is a cash sale right for you? goes through it.