Do I need probate to sell a house in Pennsylvania?
In most cases, yes. If the home was solely in your parent’s name, the estate typically must go through probate before the property can be transferred or sold. The executor named in the will is usually the person with authority to act. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator. Before listing, we confirm who has legal authority to sign and move forward so there are no surprises at closing.
How long does probate take in Pennsylvania?
Probate timelines vary, but many estates remain open for several months. The good news is that in many situations, you do not have to wait until probate is fully complete to list the property. Once the executor receives the short certificate, we can often begin preparing and marketing the home while the estate administration continues.
Can an executor sell a house without all heirs agreeing?
Legally, the executor has authority to manage and sell estate property, but family alignment matters. Even when one person has signing power, disagreements between heirs can delay or complicate a sale. I help families create a clear pricing strategy supported by data so decisions feel objective rather than emotional.
What taxes apply when you inherit a house in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania does have inheritance tax, which is based on the relationship to the deceased. There may also be capital gains considerations if the property increases in value after the date of death. Because every situation is different, I always recommend confirming details with an estate attorney or CPA, but I can help you understand how timing may affect your net proceeds.
What if siblings inherit a house together?
This is common. Sometimes one sibling wants to keep the property, while others prefer to sell. Sometimes no one lives locally. The key is clarity around authority, agreement on price, and a plan for preparing the home. I regularly work with multiple heirs and out of state family members and keep communication streamlined so everyone stays informed.
Should I sell my parents’ house right away?
Not necessarily. You may need time to sort through personal belongings, gather documents, and understand the financial picture. There is rarely a need to rush unless there are mortgage pressures or property maintenance concerns. I can walk through the property with you and help you understand what timeline makes the most sense.