What to Do With a Loved One’s Home Right After They Pass

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and often within days or weeks, someone in the family also has to think about their home. If you’re an executor, administrator, or family member facing this right now, here are the practical first steps to take, before you have to make any big decisions about selling.

Secure the property

Change the locks if needed, make sure the home stays insured, and check that utilities are either kept on or properly shut off so pipes don’t freeze and the property doesn’t fall into disrepair.

Gather the essential documents

Look for the will, any trust documents, mortgage statements, property tax records, and insurance policies. You’ll need these regardless of what happens next.

Confirm who has legal authority

In most cases, an executor or administrator needs official authority from the probate court, often called Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, before they can sell, transfer, or make binding decisions about the property.

Don’t rush repairs or renovations

It’s tempting to start fixing up the house right away, but it’s worth waiting until you understand the property’s condition, the estate’s finances, and your options. Many repairs turn out not to be necessary before selling.

Loop in a probate attorney early

An attorney can walk you through what the court requires and how long the process may take in your specific case. Every estate is different.

Talk to a probate-experienced real estate agent

Once you have a sense of the timeline and who has authority, a real estate professional familiar with probate can help you understand the property’s value and your options, without pressuring you into a decision before you’re ready.

There’s no need to figure all of this out alone, and there’s no need to rush. Taking it one step at a time is enough.