Learnaboutprobate Website

Welcome to Probate

Introduction

This page will provide you with the essential details of a Successful Probate Real Estate Transaction. Probate is handled differently in each state. The information provided is based on the guidelines set forth in the State of California. Many people who find themselves with the responsibility of handling a loved one's affairs through probate may experience this type of transaction only once or twice in their lifetime. This brochure is designed for information purposes to help you understand the process.

When a person dies, the property they leave behind is generally referred to as their estate.“Probate” is the State's procedure to finalize a decedent's financial affairs and distribute his or her property to the heirs. Upon notifying the court of a person's death, the court will appoint or approve an executor,administrator or personal representative to oversee the distribution of assets.

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Full or Limited Authority

The court can grant the personal representative Full or Limited Authority under the Independent Administration of Estate Act (IAEA). The IAEA is a series of laws allowing the personal representatives to administer most aspects of the decedent's estate without court supervision. If the court grants Full Authority to the personal representative, they may handle the affairs such as Selling Real Property at their own discretion. On the other hand, Limited Authority always requires court supervision.

What is a Notice of Sale

A Notice of Sale must be published prior to the sale of the estate real property unless the will directs the real property t be sold or

gives authority to the personal representative to sell the property. This will typically be handled by the attorney for the estate.

When can I list the Property for Sale

If a personal representative has full powers, an exclusive right to sell listing agreement may be granted for a period not to exceed 90 days. This can be renewed subsequently every 3 months for up to 270 days.

If the personal representative does not have full powers, before the representative signs the listing agreement, a notice of Proposed Action regarding intent to list the property must be prepared by an attorney and mailed to any interested parties. The interested parties then have 15 days to object. If there are no objections,, then the listing can proceed.

What is the Timeline for a Probate Sale

If the sale requires Court Confirmation, once a buyer's offer is accepted it could take 6-10 weeks until the actual date of the hearing. Sometimes less depending on the court. After confirmation in court, it will take the attorney approximately 2 weeks to file the remaining paperwork. Once the remaining requirements are fulfilled through escrow the transaction can close.

The timeline for a Probate NOT requiring Court Confirmation is that of a standard sale.

What is an Overbid

In a sale requiring Court Confirmation, the property s subject to an overbid. At the hearing, the judge or attorney will summarize the description of the property and terms of the sale and then entertain overbids. The first overbid must exceed the original bid by 10% of the first $10,000 and 5% of the excess.

Are there any Restrictions on the final Sales Price of a Probate Property

Yes. The sales price of a private sale of estate real property subject to to court confirmation must be at least 90% of its appraised values set within one year prior to the sale.

Is there a limit to the amount of commission that can be charged

Los Angeles County Superior Court Rule 10.93 limits commission to 5% except in the case of vacant land. Orange County Superior Court Rule 606.06 limits commission to 6% unless justified by exceptional circumstances.

Closing Statement

We hope that you found this information helpful in understanding the Probate process. It is very important that when handling a probate estate property sale that you seek the services of Real Estate Professionals that are experienced in this type of transaction. The AM Real Estate Group is well versed in Probate Real Estate. Our Team will help you understand the process and navigate it from beginning to end.

Please feel free to contact us with your questions.