Step 1
Let's Talk
Tell me about the home, your timeline, and your questions.
Complimentary Seller Resource
Request The Executor's Property Guide
Inherited a home or helping manage estate property? Start with a practical guide to the real estate side of preparing, evaluating and eventually selling an inherited Texas property.
Send Me The Executor's Property GuideYou don't have to know where to start.
The Executor's Property Guide was created for people dealing with a house while also navigating an estate. It explains the property-focused questions worth considering before rushing into clean-out, repairs or a listing.
You'll learn how to think about securing the property, understanding condition, deciding whether repairs make sense, preparing for a listing and coordinating the real estate side with the estate's attorney and title professionals.
Request your complimentary guide
Use the short request form to tell me where to send your resource and a little about the property.
Request My Free GuideRequesting the guide does not obligate you to list or sell your property and does not create a representation agreement.
Picture Guide
Selling a Home: From First Questions to Closing
New to selling? Follow these 12 illustrated steps. You don't have to figure everything out at once—and some steps may happen in a different order.
Step 2
Understand Its Value
Compare recent sales and discuss selling as-is versus making repairs.
Step 3
Plan the Preparation
Decide what cleaning, belongings, and repairs can be handled.
Step 4
List the Home
Set a price, take photos, and begin marketing when authorized.
Step 5
Show the Property
Buyers tour the home and ask questions.
Step 6
Review Offers
Compare price, financing, deadlines, and buyer conditions.
Step 7
Go Under Contract
Sign the agreement and follow its important dates.
Step 8
Inspections & Appraisal
The buyer may inspect the home; a lender may require an appraisal.
Step 9
Title Review
The title company checks ownership, liens, and closing documents.
Step 10
Final Walk-Through
The buyer checks the property's condition before closing.
Step 11
Sign Closing Papers
Required parties sign; the title company coordinates final steps.
Step 12
Funding & Keys
After funding and according to the contract, possession transfers.
Inherited a home or selling during divorce?
The real estate steps may look similar, but who can approve the sale, move belongings, sign documents, or receive the money can be different. Check with your attorney and title company before taking action.
Before You Make Changes
What Can I Do Now—and What Should I Check First?
Good First Steps
Write down your questions, gather information about the property, ask for a market evaluation, and contact the attorney handling the estate or divorce.
Check Before Acting
Before removing or donating belongings, making major repairs, signing a listing agreement, accepting an offer, or deciding how sale money will be divided, confirm who has authority and what approvals are needed.
Common Questions, Simple Answers
Can I clean out an inherited home right away?
Not always. Some belongings may belong to the estate. Ask the estate attorney who can authorize removal, donation, or disposal before you begin.
Can one spouse decide to sell the home?
Not necessarily. Ownership, marital rights, agreements, and court orders can affect who must approve and sign. Check with your divorce attorney and title company.
Do I have to fix everything before selling?
No. We can compare selling as-is with making selected improvements, including costs and likely sale proceeds, before you decide.
Why does the title company need paperwork?
The title company checks ownership, liens, and the documents needed to insure and close the sale. Probate or divorce documents may be required, depending on your situation.
What happens to the money after closing?
It depends on the transaction. Estate funds or divorce sale proceeds may need to be handled under applicable legal requirements, agreements, or court orders. Ask your attorney and title company what applies.
Educational information only—not legal, tax, or financial advice. Every situation is different. Your attorney advises on legal authority and court requirements; the title company determines closing requirements; Lisa Williams, REALTOR®, helps with property valuation, marketing, and the real estate transaction.
Not ready to sell? That's okay.
You can use the guide simply to understand the real estate side of the process. When you're ready for property-specific market information, I can help you evaluate the home's condition, likely buyer pool, comparable sales and possible as-is versus preparation strategies.
Lisa Williams, REALTOR® | eXp Realty, LLC
(832) 948-9581 · Lisa.D.Williams@ExpRealty.com