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Navigating Probate Real Estate? Let Us Guide You Every Step of the Way.

Compassionate, experienced support for families, executors, and heirs managing property through probate. We help you understand the legal process, your options, and the best next steps.

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone passes away, during which the court oversees the distribution of the deceased person’s assets—including real estate. If the individual owned a home and did not place it in a trust, that property must go through probate before it can be sold.

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This process can involve:

  • Validating the will

  • Appointing an executor or administrator

  • Settling debts and taxes

  • Distributing assets to heirs

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If you're an executor, administrator, or heir to a property that must go through probate, you may be feeling overwhelmed. 

When Do You Need a Probate Attorney?

There is no will (intestate)
You're unsure who has legal authority to sell the property
The home is tied up in a trust, lien, or reverse mortgage
There are debts or taxes owed
We can connect you with experienced, vetted probate attorneys in your area.

What We Do as Probate Real Estate Experts

We specialize in working with families, attorneys, and court-appointed representatives to simplify the probate home selling process. Our goal is to take the stress off your plate while maximizing the value of the estate.

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Here's how we help:

✅ Guide You Through the Probate Real Estate Process

We break down every step of the probate home sale—from initial paperwork to closing day—so you understand exactly what to expect.

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✅ Evaluate & Prepare the Property

We assess the property’s condition and offer advice on whether to sell “as-is” or make simple repairs to boost value. We also coordinate clean-outs and maintenance when needed.

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✅ List the Home or Connect You with Cash Buyers

Whether you want top dollar through a traditional listing or need a quick, hassle-free cash sale, we’ve got the network to make it happen.

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✅ Collaborate with Probate Attorneys

We work alongside your legal team to make sure everything complies with court requirements, minimizing delays or errors.

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✅ Handle All Marketing & Showings

We use professional photography, online marketing, and proven real estate strategies to get your probate property sold quickly and for the best price possible.

What  is A Reverse Mortgage?

How We Can Help

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A reverse mortgage is a loan available to homeowners aged 62 and older that allows them to convert a portion of their home equity into cash—without having to sell their home or make monthly mortgage payments.
Instead of the homeowner paying the lender, the lender pays the homeowner. The loan is typically repaid when the homeowner sells the home, moves out, or passes away.
What Happens to a Home with a Reverse Mortgage After Death?
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When the borrower passes away, their heirs or estate typically must repay the reverse mortgage loan balance—usually by selling the home. If the loan isn’t repaid, the lender may begin foreclosure proceedings.
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✅ Assess the Situation

We review the reverse mortgage terms, balance owed, property condition, and market value to help you understand your options clearly.

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✅ Determine the Best Exit Strategy

We help you decide whether to:

  • Sell the home and pay off the reverse mortgage

  • Negotiate with the lender if the home is worth less than the loan

  • Keep the home by refinancing or repaying the loan in full

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✅ Coordinate with the Lender

We communicate directly with the reverse mortgage servicer to ensure all legal timelines and procedures are followed—avoiding foreclosure or unnecessary stress.

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✅ Sell the Home Quickly (If Needed)

If selling is the right move, we’ll:

  • Price the home competitively

  • Market it aggressively

  • Handle showings and negotiations

  • Work with cash buyers if needed for a fast close

Probate FAQ

How long does probate take?

Most probate cases in California take 6–12 months, but it varies depending on the court, the complexity of the estate, and whether there’s a will.

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Can I sell a house before probate is complete?

In some cases, yes. With court approval and proper documentation, you can begin marketing and even accept offers while probate is in process.

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What if there’s no will?

The home is still part of the probate estate. The court will appoint an administrator, and the sale must follow the state’s intestate succession laws.

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Do I have to clean or fix the house before selling?​

Not always. We work with investors who buy as-is, or we can recommend trusted contractors and cleanout crews if you want to maximize value.

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Will the heirs get paid after the sale?

Yes—once the sale closes and debts are paid, the remaining equity is distributed to the heirs per the will or court order.

Download the Probate Guide

       Including

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  • Probate timeline cheat sheet

  • How to sell a home in probate

  • Probate glossary: legal terms made simple

  • Tips for avoiding costly mistakes

  • Questions to ask your probate attorney

  • Checklists and forms

Huntington Browne Real Estate  is a licensed real estate broker (01088374) in the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice.
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