Inherited homes often require significant preparation before sale—from clearing decades of belongings to addressing deferred maintenance—and executors must balance the cost of improvements against potential return while managing emotional aspects of sorting a loved one's possessions. This checklist guides executors through preparing probate property for market.

Immediate Actions

Secure the Property

• Change locks or rekey (you'll need access for agents and buyers)
• Verify insurance coverage—notify insurer of vacancy
• Check for security system and update codes
• Notify neighbors that property is being managed by estate

Maintain Utilities

• Keep electricity on (for showings and to prevent damage)
• Maintain water for inspections and to prevent pipe issues
• Keep HVAC running to prevent mold and maintain property
• Transfer utility accounts to estate name

Clearing the Home

Sort Personal Property

Create categories: items for heirs, items to sell/donate, items to discard. This is often the most emotionally difficult part. Allow time, involve family members, and consider hiring estate sale company or cleanout service if the task is overwhelming.

Options for Contents

• Estate sale: Professional companies take 30-40% but handle everything
• Auction: For valuable items (art, antiques, collections)
• Donation: Many organizations pick up, provides tax deduction documentation
• Cleanout service: $1,000-$5,000 depending on home size, removes everything
• Sell as-is with contents: Some investors will buy and handle clearout

Repairs: Cost vs. Benefit Analysis

Usually Worth It

• Deep cleaning ($300-$600)—huge impact on showing
• Landscaping cleanup ($200-$500)—curb appeal matters
• Interior paint if badly worn ($2,000-$5,000)—freshens everything
• Fix obvious safety hazards—required for many buyers' loans

Usually Not Worth It

• Major kitchen/bath remodel—won't recover full cost
• New flooring throughout—buyers want to choose their own
• Pool renovation—expensive with uncertain return
• Major system replacements—price reflects condition instead

Depends on Market

• Carpet replacement—sometimes helps, sometimes not
• Appliance updates—evaluate based on condition
• HVAC service—tune-up usually worth it, replacement depends

The Bottom Line

Preparing an inherited home balances emotional, financial, and practical considerations. Focus on cleaning, clearing, and addressing obvious issues rather than major renovations. An experienced probate agent can advise which improvements make sense for your specific property and market conditions.

I help executors navigate property preparation decisions. If you need guidance on what to fix, what to skip, and how to prepare inherited property for sale, reach out for advice specific to your situation.