10 Steps Every Executor Should Know
When a home is part of an estate, executors and families often have to make property decisions quickly and without a clear roadmap. This checklist sets out the real estate side of the process in ten steps, with the common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Confirm your authority to act
Before making decisions about the property, confirm who has legal authority to act on behalf of the estate or trust. In many cases, that may be the executor, personal representative, trustee, or another authorized party. If you are unsure, confirm this with the attorney handling the estate.
Secure the property immediately
Make sure the property is protected as soon as possible. Change locks if needed, collect spare keys, secure valuables, forward mail, and make sure the home is not left vulnerable. If the property is vacant, regular checks are often a good idea.
Review insurance coverage
Do not assume the existing homeowner's policy still provides the right protection. A vacant property or estate-owned property may require different coverage. Confirm the policy status, vacancy terms, and whether any updates are needed right away.
Locate important property documents
Gather the documents connected to the home, including the deed, mortgage information, tax statements, utility details, HOA information, lease agreements if applicable, and any trust or probate-related paperwork. Having these in one place makes the process much easier.
Understand the property's condition
Take time to assess the true condition of the home. Look at deferred maintenance, safety concerns, needed repairs, personal property left behind, and any issues that may affect marketability or value. This helps set realistic expectations before making next-step decisions.
Get a realistic valuation
One of the most important steps is determining a credible value for the property. Families are often given inflated opinions or conflicting advice. A realistic valuation helps with planning, timing, repair decisions, sale strategy, and conversations with attorneys, heirs, and beneficiaries.
Decide whether to sell as-is or improve before sale
Not every estate property should be renovated before listing. Some homes sell best as-is, while others benefit from targeted clean-up, hauling, repairs, or cosmetic improvements. The goal is to make decisions based on likely return, not guesswork.
Coordinate with all decision-makers
Many estate sales involve multiple family members, co-trustees, beneficiaries, or advisors. Clear communication matters. Decide early who needs updates, who is involved in decisions, and how approvals will be handled to reduce confusion and delays.
Build a timeline that fits the legal process
The real estate timeline should work alongside probate, trust administration, title requirements, court timelines if applicable, and family logistics. Rushing usually causes problems, but waiting too long can also create unnecessary holding costs and stress.
Choose a sale strategy that fits the situation
Once the legal authority, condition, and timing are clear, choose the best path forward. That may include selling traditionally, selling as-is, preparing the property for maximum exposure, or delaying the sale until other estate matters are resolved. The right approach depends on the property, the people involved, and the overall goals.
Every estate situation is different. This checklist is meant to help you ask the right questions, stay organized, and make informed decisions about the property. It is not legal or tax advice. Executors, trustees, and families should work with the appropriate attorney, CPA, and real estate professionals for guidance specific to their situation.
Companion Resources for Executors
Use these alongside the checklist.
For Executors
A clear roadmap for personal representatives managing estate real property in Washington.
First Steps with the House
What to secure, document, and avoid in the first two weeks.
How Probate Real Estate Works
Letters, court timing, and what executors can and can't do before they're issued.
Professional Disclosure
Real Property Planning is an educational and connection hub. It does not provide legal, tax, accounting, financial, brokerage, or appraisal services. Professionals referenced on this site are independently licensed and operate through their own separate businesses. Real estate brokerage services are provided by David Stein, a licensed Washington broker, through eXp Realty. Appraisal services are provided by David Stein through Stein Appraisal. Read the full disclaimer.