Why It Matters That Your Realtor Has Probate Experience

When you’re selling a property, finding a realtor that has the appropriate experience and qualifications is satisfactory. However, if you’re selling a property after the death of a loved one, you need to go the extra mile and find a realtor with probate experience. This is because selling a probate property differs from a traditional sale. Probate refers to a court-supervised process that includes the appraisal and distribution of a deceased person’s estate.

Here are 5 reasons why you should make sure your realtor has probate experience:

1. A realtor with probate experience will make the process easier
Selling your deceased loved one’s property on your own would require you to know all the laws and procedures related to probate, which can be time-consuming and stressful. Different states also have different probate laws, which means you’ll have to be knowledgeable about them.

Enlisting a realtor with probate experience takes a load off your shoulders and reassures you during a difficult time because you can trust that they know what they’re doing since they’ve done it many times before.

2. Their expertise will speed up the process
If a realtor doesn’t have probate experience, they’re bound to mess up your probate paperwork and process – leading to unnecessary delays and added stress during your mourning period. A realtor with probate experience will make the process as seamless as possible, making sure to fill you in and teach you about concepts you may not be familiar with.

3. You’ll save time
The last thing you need when you’re dealing with the loss of a loved one is to have the process of selling their property dragged out. In general, the process usually takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. This seems like a long wait, but keep in mind that using a realtor without probate experience can actually drag the process out longer.

4. They’ll be understanding of your needs
Mourning the death of a loved one is painful and requires sensitivity, which a probate realtor has. They’ll be able to anticipate your needs and make the process less stressful for you, making sure that you’re able to focus on healing with the rest of your family.

5. They can help you reduce your probate attorney fees
Lawyers fees are expensive. The last thing you should be worried about during mourning is forking out large sums of money. Of course you’ll have to hire a probate lawyer to help with selling a deceased loved one’s property, but you won’t have to fully rely on them if you enlist a realtor with probate experience. This means you’ll spend less on attorney fees and save money.

Keep the above points in mind when searching for a realtor to assist with selling a deceased loved one’s property. Making sure they have probate experience will save you a lot of time and money in a time where you should be focused on grieving and spending time with family. Call us with any probate questions, 619-944-5972.