Navigating the probate process can be overwhelming—especially when it comes during an already emotional time. Whether you’re an executor or personal representative, you may be juggling grief, legal responsibilities, and the logistics of managing an estate. That’s why having a clear, easy-to-follow probate checklist is essential.
At Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty Advisors, we specialize in helping families settle estates with as little stress as possible. Below is a comprehensive probate checklist to help guide you through the most common steps of the process.
Step 1: Secure the Property and Assets
- Secure any real estate: Ensure all properties are locked and safe.
- Post no trespassing notices (if vacant).
- Obtain vacant property insurance if the home is unoccupied.
- Lock up and protect all personal property.
Step 2: Organize Legal Documents
- Obtain multiple copies of the death certificate.
- Get a copy of the will (if one exists).
- Notify life insurance companies of the passing.
- Decide on legal representation: Whether hiring a probate attorney or filing pro se.
Step 3: File and Initiate Probate
- Determine the level of probate required (consult an attorney if unsure).
- File probate with the county clerk.
- Publish a notice to creditors in a local newspaper.
- Open a bank account in the estate’s name for managing funds.
- Set up auto-payments for mortgages, utilities, etc.
Step 4: Prepare the Real Estate
- Consult professionals about legality and timing of selling assets.
- Clean out any real estate and remove heirlooms or valuables.
- Maintain the property:
- Lawn & landscaping
- Gutter cleaning
- Painting & exterior repairs
- HVAC & appliance servicing
- Interior repairs (plumbing, electrical, etc.)
- Lawn & landscaping
Step 5: Manage Personal Property
- Divide belongings among heirs.
- Arrange estate sale for valuables not being kept.
- Donate items not wanted by heirs.
- Hire a cleanout company for remaining items.
- Schedule a final deep cleaning.
Step 6: Start an Asset Inventory
- Life insurance
- Bank accounts (checking, savings)
- Investments
- Final paychecks or death benefits
- Real estate equity & mortgages
- Debts and liabilities
- Valuable personal items
- Other miscellaneous assets
Step 7: Finalize the Estate
- Notify all known creditors and request final payoff info.
- Stop interest accrual on debts where possible.
- Notify Social Security Administration and claim any survivor benefits.
- Create a final distribution plan.
- Pay all debts and taxes owed by the estate.
- Dispose of unsold or unwanted assets.
- Distribute inheritances per the will or local intestacy laws.
- File a final accounting with the probate court.
- Close the estate bank account and request closure from the court.
You’re Not Alone — We Can Help
Probate doesn’t have to be a lonely or overwhelming journey. At Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty Advisors, we are here to walk you through the process step by step. Whether you need help evaluating property, coordinating cleanouts, or selling inherited homes quickly and efficiently, we are your Trusted Local Probate Real Estate Experts.
Call us today at (718) 571-8366 or email jblake@yhsgrnyc.com to get compassionate, expert guidance during this difficult time.
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