The First Week After Inheriting a House

Quick Answer:
In the first week after inheriting a house, focus on protecting it and gathering information. Secure the home, call the insurance company, keep the utilities on, find the will or trust, set aside keepsakes and important papers, and talk with an estate attorney. Big decisions about selling can wait until you know who has authority and what the home is worth.

An inherited home can bring a lot of practical questions at an already difficult time. It helps to begin with the things that need attention first.

You don’t have to decide everything at once. Start by protecting the home, gathering paperwork and finding out who can act for the estate.

1. Secure the Home

Lock all doors and windows. If keys have been shared with neighbors, caregivers or service people, consider changing the locks. Store valuables, jewelry and important papers somewhere safe.

2. Call the Insurance Company

Let the homeowner’s insurer know the owner has passed and whether anyone is living there. Vacant homes often need different coverage, and keeping the policy active protects the home’s value.

3. Keep the Utilities On

Keep power, water and heat running. It protects the home from frozen pipes and moisture, and you’ll need them for showings later. Set the thermostat to a steady, moderate temperature.

4. Take Care of the Everyday Things

Clear out perishable food.
Water plants or arrange for someone to.
Make sure pets are cared for.
Collect the mail and packages.
Keep the yard and porch looking tended.

5. Find the Will or Trust

Look for a will, a trust, the deed and recent statements. The deed shows how the home is titled, which tells you whether it goes through probate. See can you sell a house before probate.

6. Order Death Certificates

Order several certified copies. Banks, insurers, the title company and the court each may need one.

7. Set Aside Keepsakes and Papers

Before anything is donated or sold, gather family photos, letters, heirlooms and important documents. Take photos of each room as it is. Those photos can be a meaningful way to keep the memories.

There’s no rush to empty the house. That can come later, with help.

8. Call the Mortgage Servicer

If there’s a mortgage, let the servicer know and keep payments current. See inheriting a house with a mortgage.

9. Talk With an Estate Attorney

An attorney can tell you whether probate is needed, who has authority to act, and what comes next. See how to find a good probate attorney. If Medicaid helped pay for care, ask about that as well. See can Medicaid claim an inherited home.

10. Hold Off on Big Decisions

Selling, renting, renovating and dividing belongings can all wait a few weeks. Once you know who has authority and what the home is worth, those decisions become much clearer.

When You’re Ready to Think About the House

I can help you understand the home’s current value and what it may need before a sale. That gives you and your family a place to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay in the house I inherited?

It depends on who has authority and whether there are other heirs. Talk with the attorney and the family before moving in.

Should I clean out the house right away?

No. Set aside keepsakes and important papers, then take your time. Cleanout can be planned once you know the next steps.

Who pays the bills on an inherited house?

The estate or trust usually pays the mortgage, taxes, insurance and utilities, and those costs come back from the estate.

When should I call a real estate agent?

Anytime you’re ready. An early conversation helps you plan, even if the sale is months away.

If you would like to keep reading, I also cover whether to clean out, repair or sell as is.

About the Author

Jolene Baijot is a real estate agent and Designated Broker with more than 25 years of experience and over 1,000 transactions. She holds the Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES) and Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designations and helps families take care of inherited homes from the very first week. Learn more about how Jolene helps with probate and trust sales.

Here When You’re Ready

There may be a lot to think about right now. Whenever you’re ready to talk about the house, I’m here.

This post is general real estate information. An estate attorney can advise you on your situation.