Frequently Asked Questions

Who is in Charge of Executing a Will?
ANSWER:  The executor is the person in charge of making sure the wishes and instructions in a will are followed. This role can also be called an administrator, enforcer, steward, personal representative, agent, or fiduciary. If the executor is a woman, she might be referred to as an executrix.

What is probate?
ANSWER:  Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, including distributing assets and paying debts.

How long does the probate process take?
ANSWER:  The length of the probate process can vary, but it typically takes several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate.

Can you help with selling the property quickly?
ANSWER:  Yes, as licensed real estate agents, we can help you sell the property quickly for cash or provide guidance on property improvements to maximize its value and selling price.

What if I need legal advice?
ANSWER:  We can connect you with a reputable probate attorney who can provide the legal guidance you need.

What should I do first after becoming a personal representative?
ANSWER:  Your first steps should include obtaining the death certificate, securing the property, and locating the will. From there, you can begin the probate process. We’re here to help you with this.

How do I know if I need probate?
ANSWER:  Not all estates require probate. Smaller estates or those with assets that automatically transfer to beneficiaries may not need to go through probate. We can help assess your situation and provide guidance.

Can I handle the probate process myself, or do I need an attorney?
ANSWER:  While it's possible to handle probate without an attorney, it's often beneficial to seek legal advice, especially if the estate is complex. We can connect you with reputable probate attorneys.

What costs are involved in the probate process?
ANSWER:  Probate costs can include court fees, attorney fees, and administrative expenses. The total cost will vary depending on the complexity of the estate. We can help you estimate these costs and manage the process efficiently.

 

What is a Probate Cash Advance?
ANSWER:  Also referred to as an inheritance advance. A probate cash advance is a service that provides beneficiaries with immediate funds from their inheritance during the probate process. Instead of waiting months or years for the estate to settle, you can receive a portion of your inheritance quickly. This can help cover expenses such as property maintenance, legal fees, and other urgent costs. The advance is repaid from your share of the estate once probate is complete.


How can I prepare the property for sale?
ANSWER:  We offer a range of services to prepare the property for sale, including lawn care, painting, repairs, and junk removal. Our goal is to help you present the property in the best possible condition to attract buyers and maximize its value.
 

What if the property needs significant repairs?
ANSWER:  We can coordinate with trusted contractors to handle any necessary repairs, from minor fixes to major renovations. This can help increase the property's market value and appeal to potential buyers.
 

How quickly can you sell the property?
ANSWER:  We specialize in quick cash sales and can often complete the sale in a matter of weeks. If you're looking to maximize the sale price, we can also advise on improvements and market the property to attract top-dollar offers.
 

Can I rent out the property instead of selling it?
ANSWER:  Yes - for some families it may be the optimal solution. We can help you get started down this path by locating potential tenants and assisting with lease agreements. If you don’t want to oversee property maintenance and manage tenants, we will refer you to a reputable property management company that can oversee all aspects of managing the rental.

 

Can you help us with Residential AND/OR Commercial Property that's going through the probate process?
Absolutely! At Probate Property Help, we have extensive experience handling both residential and commercial properties undergoing the probate process. Our services are designed to support you through every step, from securing and maintaining the property to preparing it for sale or rent. Whether it’s a family home or a commercial building, our team is here to ensure a smooth and efficient process, providing the expertise and resources needed to manage and transition your probate properties effectively.

 

What if there are disputes among heirs or beneficiaries?
ANSWER:  Disputes can complicate the probate process. We recommend consulting with an attorney to mediate and resolve any conflicts. We can connect you with legal professionals who specialize in probate disputes.


How do I handle personal belongings in the property?
ANSWER:  We offer organization and cleanup services to help you sort through personal belongings, handle junk removal, and prepare the property for sale or rental.


How do I know if we should have an estate sale?
ANSWER:  You should consider an estate sale if your loved one's belongings include valuable items, collectibles, or large amounts of furniture that you don’t plan to keep. We can put you in touch with an estate sale service provider and they can help you make the best decision.
 

How should I handle vehicles?
ANSWER:  First check the title and registration to ensure you have the legal right to sell or transfer the vehicle. If the title is in the deceased's name, you may need to go through probate to transfer ownership. You should consult a probate attorney.  Once you have proper authority you can sell, donate, or transfer to a family member. If the vehicle is a classic, or you’re not sure of its value, consider using an auto appraiser that can provide the vehicles value. We work with auto appraisers and can put you in touch.
 

What are the tax implications of selling a probate property?
ANSWER:  Selling a probate property can have tax implications, including capital gains tax. We can refer you to CPA tax professionals who can provide specific advice based on your unique situation.
 

Can you help if I live out of state?
ANSWER:  We focus primarily with probates within Washington State. However our national network of professionals will be able assist you anywhere within the US and can manage all aspects of the probate process. Simply contact us to give us a bit more detail on the probate and your location.

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