Inheriting a house can come with a flood of emotions. While it might feel like a generous gift, the reality often sets in when you discover the home needs significant repairs—and you’re not sure what to do next. Whether the property is outdated, damaged, or just overwhelming to manage, there are smart ways to handle it without getting stuck in a financial or legal mess.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exact steps you should take when you inherit a house in poor condition, including your selling options, how taxes might affect you, and how to make a decision that actually works for your life—not against it.
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## Step 1: Know the Legal Process—What Is Probate?
Before you do anything, you need to make sure the house legally belongs to you. This happens through something called **probate**, a legal process that transfers ownership from the deceased to their heir(s). If the person left a will, it usually names an executor to handle this. Without a will, the court appoints someone.
Depending on where you live and how complex the estate is, probate can take several months or longer. Only once that process is complete can you sell the house, rent it out, or transfer it to someone else.
> 👉 **More on this:** [What You Need to Know About Probate in California](https://www.houzeo.com/blog/selling-inherited-property-california/)
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## Step 2: Get Your Paperwork Together
Once probate is in motion or complete, you’ll need to gather a few key documents:
– Death certificate
– The will (if available)
– Proof of ownership (from probate court)
– Property tax records
– Any mortgage or lien information
– Disclosure forms (required in most states when selling)
If the home had more than one heir, be prepared for some back-and-forth decisions or agreements on what to do next.
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## Step 3: Think About Taxes—Yes, Even on an Inherited House
You’re probably wondering if you’ll owe taxes on the house or the profits if you sell it. The answer is: it depends.
Most people benefit from what’s called a **“step-up in basis.”** That means the home’s value is adjusted to what it was worth on the day the previous owner passed away—not what they originally paid for it.
So if you sell it quickly, there might be little or no capital gains tax. But, if the property appreciates after you inherit it and you sell later, you could owe taxes on the profit.
> 🧾 Learn more from this guide: [Selling Inherited Property and Capital Gains](https://www.soldnest.com/blog/selling-inherited-property/)
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## Step 4: Check the Home’s Condition
Now comes the big question—**what shape is the house really in?** You can walk through and make a list of visible issues, or consider hiring a home inspector if you’re unsure.
Things to look for:
– Water damage or mold
– Old roofing or plumbing
– Structural cracks
– Foundation issues
– Electrical problems
– Outdated kitchens and bathrooms
If the home needs major repairs and you don’t have the time, money, or energy to take them on, selling the house **as-is** may be your best option.
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## Step 5: Decide How You Want to Sell
Here are your main options:
### 1. **Sell As-Is to a Cash Buyer**
This is one of the fastest and easiest options if the home needs a lot of work. A cash buyer (often an investor or home-buying company) will make an offer based on the home’s current condition. You don’t need to clean, repair, or stage anything.
– Fast closing (often within 7–14 days)
– No agent fees or commissions
– No repair costs
Just keep in mind: the offer might be below full market value—but it can save you a ton of stress, time, and upfront money.
### 2. **List With a Real Estate Agent**
If the home is in decent shape or you’re willing to do a little cleaning and minor repairs, a real estate agent can help list it on the MLS. You may get more money this way, but it can take longer and cost more in commissions and fees.
### 3. **Flat-Fee MLS or FSBO**
Want to save on commission but still reach buyers? Services like Houzeo offer flat-fee MLS listings. That way, you handle the sale yourself but still get your home in front of buyers online.
## Step 4: Weigh Your Options—Then Take Action
Every situation is different. Maybe the house holds sentimental value. Maybe you live out of state and just need it off your hands. Whatever the case, take some time to think it through—but don’t let the home sit for months while costs (like property taxes or insurance) add up.
Some final things to consider:
– Do you want to hold onto the home as a rental?
– Is there a mortgage on the property?
– Will repairs add enough value to be worth it?
– Are other heirs involved in the decision?
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## Need to Sell an Inherited House Fast (and As-Is)?
If you’ve inherited a home that needs work and you’re not sure where to start—or just want it off your plate—**QuickHomeOffers.com** can help. We buy houses in any condition, with no commissions or hidden fees. You don’t have to fix a thing.
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*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or financial advice. Please consult with a professional advisor or attorney to discuss your specific situation.*