Inherited a Home? 7 Steps to Take Before Selling

Inheriting a home can be both a blessing and a challenge. While it may hold sentimental value, it also comes with responsibilities—legal paperwork, maintenance, taxes, and financial decisions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves unsure of what to do next.

At MG Property Bros, we help people like you navigate the selling process quickly and stress-free—no gimmicks, no headaches. Whether you want to sell fast or just explore your options, here’s what you need to know before making a decision.

Step 1: Secure the Property

The first thing you should do is protect the home. Even if it’s in a safe neighborhood, an unoccupied house can attract break-ins, vandalism, or unnoticed maintenance issues.

- Change the locks and secure windows.

- Check for any signs of damage, leaks, or pests.

- Keep up with lawn care to avoid fines or unwanted attention.

A well-maintained home not only preserves its value but also makes it easier to sell later.

Step 2: Figure Out Ownership & Legal Requirements

Before you can sell the property, you need to confirm legal ownership. If the home was left in a will, you may have to go through probate—a legal process that verifies the inheritance.

Not sure if probate is required? Consult an estate attorney to clarify the next steps.

If the home was jointly owned, check the deed to see if you have full ownership or if other heirs are involved. Resolving these legal matters early can prevent delays when you’re ready to sell.

Step 3: Check for Mortgages, Debts & Liens

Even though the home is inherited, it might still have financial obligations attached. Here’s what to check:

Outstanding Mortgage – Contact the lender to determine if there’s an existing balance.

Property Taxes – Ensure past taxes are paid; unpaid taxes could lead to a lien.

Other Liens or Debts – Some inherited properties come with unexpected financial burdens.

If the house has unpaid debts and you can’t afford the payments, selling quickly may be the best option before financial penalties add up.

Step 4: Assess the Home’s Condition

Take a walk through the property and ask yourself:

• Is it move-in ready?
• Does it need minor updates or major repairs?
• Would it pass a home inspection for a traditional sale?

Renovations can be costly and time-consuming. If the home needs extensive repairs, selling as-is to a cash buyer like MG Property Bros can save you time, money, and stress.

Step 5: Understand the Tax Implications

Selling an inherited home comes with tax responsibilities that vary based on your location and the home’s value. The biggest considerations include:

Capital Gains Tax: If the home has appreciated in value since the original owner bought it, you might owe capital gains tax on the difference.

Estate Taxes: While most estates aren’t large enough to be taxed, it’s still worth checking with a tax professional.

Understanding these taxes before selling will help you make informed financial decisions.

Step 6: Decide Whether to Keep or Sell

Once you’ve handled the legal and financial aspects, it’s time to decide:

• Keep It: If the home has sentimental value, you might choose to live in it or rent it out. Just remember that being a landlord comes with responsibilities.
• Sell It: If you don’t want the burden of maintenance, taxes, or potential tenant issues, selling may be the smarter move.

If you need cash quickly or don’t want the stress of listing the property, a fast, as-is sale to MG Property Bros could be your best option.

Step 7: Choose the Easiest Way to Sell

If you decide to sell, you have two main options:

Traditional Sale:

• Requires repairs, cleaning, and staging.
• May take months to find a buyer.
• Comes with agent commissions and fees.

Direct Sale to MG Property Bros:

• Sell as-is—no repairs or updates needed.
• No agent fees or commissions.
• Fast closing in days, not months.
• Cash offer with no waiting or uncertainty.

At MG Property Bros, we make selling an inherited home simple and stress-free. No repairs, no showings, and no long waiting periods—just a fair cash offer and a smooth process.

Need to Sell Fast? Let’s Talk.

If you’ve inherited a home and don’t want the hassle of repairs, paperwork, or months of waiting, we’re here to help.

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