Executor vs. Trustee: Who Has the Authority to Sell the Home?
When a loved one passes away, one of the first questions families often ask is, "Who has the legal authority to sell the house?" The answer depends on how the property was owned before death. Many people use the terms executor and trustee interchangeably, but they are very different roles with dis
Executor's Guide to Selling an Estate Home
Being named as the executor of an estate is both an honor and a significant responsibility. In addition to carrying out the wishes of the deceased, executors are often responsible for managing one of the estate's most valuable assets—the family home. For many people, this is their first time handl
Do Trust Properties Avoid Probate? Here's What You Need to Know
One of the biggest reasons homeowners create a living trust is to help their loved ones avoid the time, expense, and complexity of probate after they pass away. If you've been named as a trustee or are helping administer a loved one's estate, you may be wondering whether a house held in a trust mu
The 10 Biggest Mistakes Trustees Make When Selling Real Estate
Serving as a trustee is both an honor and a significant legal responsibility. In many cases, trustees are tasked with selling a home that has been in the family for decades while balancing legal obligations, financial considerations, and the emotions of beneficiaries. Unlike a traditional home sal
Capital Gains and Trust Property Sales: What Trustees Should Know
One of the most common concerns trustees have when preparing to sell a trust-owned home is whether the sale will trigger capital gains taxes. While many trustees understand that taxes may apply, the rules surrounding trusts, inherited property, and the stepped-up basis can be confusing. The good n
How to Determine the True Value of a Trust Property
Determining the value of a trust property is one of the most important responsibilities a trustee faces. The listing price you choose can influence everything from how quickly the home sells to how much the beneficiaries ultimately receive. Price it too high, and the property may linger on the mar
Should You Renovate a Trust Property Before Selling?
One of the most important decisions a trustee faces before listing a trust-owned home is whether to sell it as-is or invest in repairs and renovations first. The answer isn't always straightforward. While strategic improvements can increase a property's appeal and selling price, extensive renovati
How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in a Trust?
One of the first questions trustees and beneficiaries ask after deciding to sell a trust-owned home is, "How long will the process take?" While there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the timeline can help set realistic expectations and reduce stress during what is often an emotional
What documents are required to sell a trust property?
Selling a home held in a trust involves more than preparing the property for the market. Trustees must also gather a variety of legal and financial documents that verify their authority, satisfy escrow requirements, and help ensure a smooth transaction. Many first-time trustees are surprised to le