A direct answer
If you've inherited a house in California, you can sell it, keep it, or buy out other heirs. The path depends on how the property is titled and whether probate is required. Full probate in California typically takes about 9 to 18 months, but many estates qualify for faster small-estate options, and probate sales can close sooner with court approval.
Step 1: Confirm ownership and title
Locate the deed and any trust documents, and confirm who the beneficiaries are. If the property was held in a living trust, it may pass outside probate entirely.
Step 2: Check whether probate is required
For deaths on or after April 1, 2025, a Small Estate Affidavit can cover estates up to $208,850 in gross value, and an Affidavit for Real Property of Small Value applies to real property worth $69,625 or less. A newer affidavit allows non-probate transfer of a primary residence worth up to $750,000. If the estate exceeds these thresholds, formal probate is usually required.
Step 3: Get the right professionals involved
An experienced probate attorney guides the court process, and a Realtor who has handled estate sales coordinates the listing. Hector Aguilar holds a California Probate Specialist certification and has helped families sell inherited homes across the San Gabriel Valley.
Step 4: Understand the tax basis
Inherited property generally receives a stepped-up basis to its value on the date of death, which can significantly reduce capital gains tax when you sell. Confirm the details with your tax advisor.
Step 5: Decide: sell, keep, or buy out
If siblings disagree, the options are selling and splitting the proceeds, one heir buying out the others, or keeping the home and renting it. A frank family conversation early prevents conflict later.
Step 6: Prepare the home
Estate homes are often dated or cluttered. A light clean-out, paint, and staging can add real value, but an honest assessment of needed repairs matters more than perfection.
Step 7: Price it with comps, not sentiment
Emotional value rarely matches market value. A comparative market analysis sets a realistic price so the home attracts qualified buyers.
Step 8: List, negotiate, and close
With court approval where required, the home lists, offers are negotiated, and proceeds are distributed through escrow according to the estate plan or court order.
Step 9: Plan the next stage
Selling an inherited home is often the start of a new chapter. Work with professionals who keep you updated at every step, so the process feels manageable instead of overwhelming.
Have questions about an inherited property?
Hector Aguilar Realty Group can explain the real estate process for inherited homes in the San Gabriel Valley. Call (626) 255-2783 or book a strategy call.
Have a question about this topic?
Hector Aguilar Realty Group can explain the process and what it means for your situation. Call (626) 255-2783, email hector.aguilarre@gmail.com, or book a free strategy call.