What Are the Steps to Selling Your Parent’s Home After They Pass Away or Move to Assisted Living?

Selling a parent’s home is more than a real estate transaction—it’s often an emotional journey. Whether your parent has moved into assisted living or has passed away, understanding the process can help make things less overwhelming.

Step 1: Determine Who Has the Legal Authority to Sell

Before listing the home, find out who has the legal right to make decisions.

If your parent has moved to assisted living:

If they are mentally competent, they can sell the home themselves.
If they have appointed someone through a Durable Power of Attorney, that person may be able to handle the sale on their behalf.

If your parent has passed away:

The executor or personal representative of the estate may have authority to sell the property.
If the home is held in a trust, the successor trustee may be responsible.
Probate may be required, depending on how the property was titled and state law.

Step 2: Gather Important Documents

Having paperwork ready can save time.

You’ll likely need:

Property deed
Mortgage information
Property tax records
Homeowners insurance information
Utility information
Power of Attorney (if applicable)
Trust documents (if applicable)
Death certificate (if applicable)
Probate or court documents authorizing the sale

Step 3: Decide What to Do With Personal Belongings

This is often the hardest step.

Consider creating four categories:

Keep
Donate
Sell
Discard

Take your time with sentimental items and important family documents.

Step 4: Prepare the Home for Sale

A little preparation can make a big difference.

Focus on:

Deep cleaning
Removing excess furniture and clutter
Completing minor repairs
Improving curb appeal
Professional staging, if appropriate

Step 5: Determine the Home’s Market Value

A real estate professional can provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help determine a competitive listing price based on recent sales in the area.

Step 6: List and Market the Property

A comprehensive marketing plan should include:

Professional photography
Online marketing
Social media advertising
MLS exposure
Open houses (when appropriate)
Buyer outreach

Step 7: Review Offers

When offers begin coming in, you’ll consider:

Purchase price
Financing
Inspection contingencies
Closing timeline
Closing costs

Your REALTOR® can help explain the pros and cons of each offer.

Step 8: Complete the Closing Process

Once an offer is accepted, the transaction moves toward closing.

This typically includes:

Home inspection
Appraisal (if financed)
Title search
Final paperwork
Closing and transfer of ownership

Don’t Forget About Taxes

Depending on your situation, there may be:

Capital gains tax considerations
A stepped-up tax basis for inherited property
Estate or inheritance tax issues (which vary by state)

It’s a good idea to consult a qualified tax professional or estate attorney before selling.

You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone

Selling a parent’s home can be emotionally and legally complex, but you don’t have to do it by yourself.

An experienced REALTOR® can help coordinate the process, answer questions, and guide your family from start to finish with professionalism and compassion.

Kelly Ortiz
Real Estate Agent
Coldwell Banker Select Properties
📞 740-350-5696
🌐 kellyortizrealestate.com
📧 kellyo@cbselectproperties.com

Blaine Ritchie, Broker