Selling an Inherited House in Broward County: Probate Step by Step
Inheriting a house in Broward County usually means dealing with probate before you can sell. Here’s how it typically works, and how to sell without doing repairs or a clean-out.
Step 1: Find out if probate is needed
If the house was in a living trust, or owned jointly with right of survivorship, it may pass without probate. If it was in your parent’s name alone, it usually goes through probate in the Broward County Circuit Court.
Step 2: Know which kind of probate
Florida has summary administration, a shorter process, generally available when the estate (not counting exempt property) is worth $75,000 or less, or when the person died more than two years ago. Otherwise it’s formal administration, where the court appoints a personal representative who can sell the house.
Step 3: Check if it was a homestead
If the house was your parent’s Florida homestead, special rules apply to who inherits it, and the court may need to confirm its homestead status before a sale.
Step 4: Keep it insured and secured
An empty house still needs insurance, utilities, lawn care and someone checking on it. Ask your attorney before letting anyone stay there.
Step 5: Decide how to sell
Listing usually means repairs, a clean-out, showings and waiting. A cash buyer buys as-is and can coordinate with your probate attorney and every heir, even if you live out of state. Easy Home Buyers has been buying inherited houses in South Florida since 2015, and we can wait until the court gives the personal representative authority to sell.
Common questions
Can I sell before probate is finished? You can agree on a sale, but closing usually has to wait until the court gives someone the authority to sign. Your attorney will know the timing.
What if the heirs disagree? A clear cash number often helps everyone decide. The title company pays each heir their share at closing.
Do I need to clean out the house? No. If you sell to us, take what you want and leave the rest.
Every estate is different, and this article is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a Florida probate attorney about your situation. When you’re ready, we buy houses across Broward County and can give you a no-obligation cash offer.
