Few sales carry as much feeling as the family home. Whether a parent has passed away or is moving to assisted living, you’re making decisions about a house full of memories, often while coordinating with siblings who live far away. After 30 years of helping Massachusetts families through this, here is the order I suggest.
1. Confirm who has the authority to sell
Before anything is signed, someone needs legal authority. If the home is in a trust, the trustee can usually sell. If it passes through an estate, the personal representative typically needs appointment from the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court. If your parent is living but can’t manage their affairs, a durable power of attorney or guardianship may apply. An estate attorney will tell you which path fits your family.
I often recommend Elliot Ralton, Ralton Law Group: (508) 697-1445. Tell him Rose said to call!
2. Protect the house while it’s empty
- Call the homeowner’s insurance company; vacant homes often need different coverage.
- Keep the heat on in winter, and consider winterizing the plumbing.
- Forward the mail, keep utilities and taxes paid, and change the locks if many people have keys.
3. Sort belongings at a kind pace
Let family members choose keepsakes first, then bring in an estate sale company, donation pick-ups and a clean-out crew. Look for important papers as you go: deeds, warranties, permits and old inspection reports all help the sale.
4. Decide: fix up, or sell as-is?
Many estate homes haven’t been updated in decades. Sometimes paint, flooring and a deep clean bring a strong return; other times buyers would rather renovate themselves. I’ll show you what similar homes in the neighborhood sold for in both conditions so the family can decide with real numbers.
5. Handle the Massachusetts requirements
- Title V septic inspection, if the home isn’t on town sewer
- Smoke and CO certificate from the local fire department
- Lead paint notification for homes built before 1978
- Deed excise tax, paid by the seller at closing
All of these are explained on my Massachusetts Seller Guides page.
6. Talk to a tax professional
Inherited property often receives a “stepped-up” cost basis, which can change the tax picture a lot. A CPA can explain how it applies to your family before you set a price.
Every family’s situation is different. For a more in-depth discussion about yours, call or text Rose at 781-248-6069.
Estate & Family Home Specialist
Selling a family home takes more than a listing. It takes experience.
Estate and family-home sales are a specialty of mine, and they call for real education, patience and know-how. For 30 years I’ve guided families through trust and estate sales, clean-outs, repair decisions and every Massachusetts requirement, while keeping each family member informed. I coordinate the attorneys, estate sale companies and contractors so you can focus on each other.
Every family gets an individualized plan, built around your home, your timeline and your circumstances. No two families are alike, and no two plans are either.
Let’s talk, whichever way is easiest for you
- Call or text: 781-248-6069
- Meet on Zoom from anywhere, ideal when family members live out of state
- Meet in person: I’ll come to you, at the home or wherever is most comfortable
Wondering what the home is worth today? Start with a free, no-pressure home value review.
Rosemary Kelleher, Realtor®
Helping People Make Smart Moves in Real Estate for 30 Years
Direct/Text: 781-248-6069
General information only, not legal or tax advice.