Understanding Probate in Maryland
When someone passes away in Maryland, their estate typically goes through probate — the legal process of validating the will and distributing assets. If you've inherited a house, you'll likely need to navigate probate before you can sell the property. Maryland probate is handled through the Register of Wills in the county where the deceased lived and generally takes 6 to 12 months for a straightforward estate.
When Is Probate Required?
Probate is generally required when the deceased owned real property in their name alone (not jointly with a surviving spouse or co-owner). If the home was held in a trust, as joint tenants with right of survivorship, or with a transfer-on-death deed, probate may not be required.
Your Options for Selling an Inherited Property
Option 1: List With a Real Estate Agent
The traditional route. You'll likely get the highest price, but the process takes 60 to 90 days, requires repairs and staging, and involves agent commissions of 5 to 6 percent.
Option 2: Sell As-Is to a Cash Buyer
Selling to a cash buyer like Potomac Home Buyers is the fastest option. We buy homes in any condition — no repairs, no cleaning, no estate sales. We can close in as little as 7 days and handle all the paperwork.
Challenges of Selling an Inherited Property
Multiple Heirs
If the property is inherited by multiple heirs, all parties must agree to sell. A cash sale with a clear, fair offer can sometimes help resolve disputes by giving all parties a straightforward option to consider.
Property Condition
Inherited properties are often older and may need significant repairs. Selling as-is to a cash buyer eliminates this challenge entirely.
The Step-Up in Basis: A Key Tax Benefit
When you inherit a home, your cost basis is stepped up to the fair market value at the date of the original owner's death — not the original purchase price. This means that if you sell the property shortly after inheriting it, you may owe little or no capital gains tax, even if the property has appreciated significantly over the years.
How Potomac Home Buyers Can Help
We specialize in buying inherited properties in Maryland. We understand the probate process and work with estate attorneys and personal representatives to make the transaction as smooth as possible.
We Work With Your Timeline
Whether you need to close in 7 days or 6 months, we work around the probate timeline and the needs of all heirs. We can make an offer now and close whenever you're ready.
No Repairs, No Cleanout
We buy homes in any condition — even if the property is full of belongings or needs major repairs. You don't need to clean out the house or make any improvements before selling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell an inherited property before probate is complete?
In most cases, no. You need legal authority to sell the property, which typically comes from the probate court. However, you can begin the process of getting a cash offer and preparing for the sale while probate is ongoing.
What if there are multiple heirs who disagree?
If heirs can't agree, the matter may need to go to court. A partition action can force the sale of the property, with proceeds divided among heirs.
Ready to Sell Your Inherited Property?
If you've inherited a house in Maryland and want to sell quickly and without hassle, Potomac Home Buyers is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation cash offer.