Step - By - Step Estate Sale Process

The Executor or Administrator must obtain:

-A copy of the Will (if available).

-A Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (commonly known as probate) if required.

Your lawyer will guide you through the probate process and determine whether you need to apply for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee before property is sold.

-Change locks if needed - we have contacts at local locksmiths that we can arrange to secure your family’s home

-Notify insurance of the owner’s passing and confirm vacancy coverage.

-Cancel or update utilities and services - we will provide you with a list of utility companies and their contact information for a smooth transition

-Death Certificate

-Property Deed

-Tax Information (Municipal & Capital Gains)

-Mortgage Details (if applicable)

-Utility and Maintenance Information

-Will and Probate Documents

As your realtor we will

-Conduct a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

-Recommend repairs, cleaning, staging, or minor updates.

-Coordinate service providers if needed (cleaners, junk removal, landscapers, etc.).

-Professional photography, signage, and marketing begin.

-The home is listed on the MLS and other platforms.

-Showings are coordinated, open houses conducted and feedback collected.

-We will present all offers and advise on conditions, timelines, and pricing.

-Once an agreement is accepted, the lawyer will review terms to ensure proper compliance with estate laws.

As your lawyer we will:

-Coordinate with the buyer’s lawyer.

-Ensure title transfer from the estate to the buyer.

-Distribute proceeds according to the Will or legal directives.

-Meet estate reporting and accounting requirements.

-Capital Gains Tax: There may be taxes owing on any increase in property value since original purchase.

-Multiple Heirs: Coordination among beneficiaries may be required.

-Power of Attorney vs Executor: A Power of Attorney ends at death—only an Executor or court-appointed Administrator has authority post-death.