Should You Sell a Probate Property Without a Realtor? Pros & Cons for Executors

Is Selling Direct the Best Option?

As an executor, one of your key responsibilities is handling the sale of real estate left behind by the deceased. You may be considering selling the probate property directly to a buyer without involving a real estate agent. While this approach may seem straightforward, it has both advantages and potential drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

The Pros of Selling Directly

✅ Faster Sale Process – Selling directly to a cash buyer or investor can speed up the transaction, especially if the property is distressed or in need of repairs. Many direct buyers purchase homes “as-is,” eliminating the time and expense of renovations.

✅ Avoiding Realtor Commissions – Without a realtor, you won’t have to pay a commission (typically 5-6% of the sale price). This may result in higher net proceeds from the sale, but only if you secure a fair offer.

✅ Less Paperwork & Fewer Showings – A direct sale often means less hassle with listing, marketing, and staging the property. If privacy or convenience is a priority, a private sale might seem appealing.

The Cons of Selling Directly

❌ Risk of Undervaluing the Property – Without an experienced probate real estate agent to conduct a market analysis, you could end up selling for less than the true market value. Investors and cash buyers often make low offers to maximize their profit. We have seen many estates that have lost $30-$40,000 or more by selling direct.

❌ Difficulty if You are Out of Town – Selling directly is complicated if you are living outside of the area. How will you manage showings or inspections? Who will monitor the property’s condition? Who will let in the appraiser?

❌ Limited Buyer Pool – By not listing on the open market, you may miss out on competitive offers from multiple buyers. A well-marketed listing could attract higher bids and increase the final sale price.

❌ Legal and Probate Compliance – Probate real estate sales have legal complexities, including court approvals, required notices, and potential objections from heirs. An experienced probate agent understands these requirements and can help navigate them smoothly.

Finding the Right Approach

If time is of the essence and you need a quick sale, selling directly to a cash buyer may be the right choice. But anticipate leaving money on the table. If maximizing the sale price and ensuring full compliance with probate regulations are your priorities, working with a qualified probate real estate agent can provide significant advantages.

At Kenner & Laven, we specialize in guiding executors through the probate sale process, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome with minimal stress. If you're considering selling a probate property, let’s discuss your options and determine the best strategy for your situation.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation!