Inheriting a house in Houston can bring mixed emotions. On one hand, it’s a valuable asset. On the other, it can create immediate questions:

What do I do with the property? Do I need probate? What about repairs? Can I sell it quickly?

If you’re navigating an inherited home for the first time, the process can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through everything — from understanding Texas probate, to preparing the home for sale, to choosing the fastest selling option.

Whether the home is in great shape or needs major repairs, this guide will help you make the best decision for your situation.

Understanding Probate When You Inherit a Home in Houston

In Texas, most inherited properties need to go through probate before the heirs can legally sell the home. Probate is simply the legal process that verifies the will, appoints an executor, and gives someone the authority to transfer ownership.

Even if the heirs all agree to sell, you usually cannot sell the home until the court gives permission.

Why probate is required

Probate ensures:

The will is valid
The court recognizes the legal heirs
Debts and taxes are handled
Someone is appointed to sign documents
The home can be sold without legal issues later

In Houston, probate takes place in Harris County, though timelines can vary widely depending on the complexity of the estate.

The Probate Process in Houston (Explained Simply)

Probate often sounds complicated, but it follows a clear structure. Here’s a descriptive, step-by-step breakdown of what actually happens:

1. Filing the application for probate

A probate attorney files paperwork with the county court to begin the process. This document notifies the court that someone has passed away and left behind property.

2. The court hearing

Within a few weeks, the judge reviews the will (if one exists).

If everything is in order, the judge appoints:

An executor — if the deceased named one in the will
An administrator — if there is no will

This person becomes responsible for managing and selling the home.

3. Notifying creditors

The court requires the estate to notify creditors.

This includes:

Mortgage companies
IRS
Credit cards
HOAs
Contractors with liens

These debts must be addressed before or during the sale.

4. Inventory and value of assets

The executor lists the estate’s assets, including the inherited house.

In some cases, the court will require a professional real estate appraisal.

5. Authority to sell the home

In most Texas cases, the executor can sell the home after receiving Letters Testamentary, but sometimes the judge requires additional approval.

6. Selling the property

Once probate authority is granted, the heirs can choose how to sell the house — traditionally, or through a fast cash sale.

Common Challenges With Inherited Homes in Houston

Many inherited homes haven’t been updated in years. It’s common to walk into a property and find:

Old flooring or outdated kitchens
Foundation cracks
Roof leaks
Mold or water damage
Full garages, attics, and belongings
Old furniture, clothing, documents, etc.

These issues make traditional home sales more challenging because modern buyers expect a home to be move-in ready.

Additionally, probate properties often involve:

Multiple heirs who must all agree
Out-of-state family members
Homes left vacant for months
Delayed maintenance
Taxes or liens
Emotional stress from recent loss

The combination of repairs, legal requirements, and personal responsibilities can make selling an inherited house feel like a full-time job.

Do You Need to Repair an Inherited Home Before Selling?

Not necessarily.

If you choose to sell the property through the traditional real estate market, you may be expected to handle:

Roof repairs
Foundation work
HVAC replacement
Kitchen or bathroom upgrades
Full cleanout and staging
Inspection repairs

In Houston, repair costs often exceed $15,000 to $50,000+, depending on the condition.

But the good news is:

You do not have to repair the home if you choose a cash buyer route.

Selling an Inherited House in Houston — Your Options

You essentially have three options when it comes to selling.

Option 1: Listing the Home on the Open Market

This is best if the home is in excellent condition and you want top dollar.

Pros:

✔️ Highest potential price

✔️ Visibility on MLS

✔️ Realtor handles showings and marketing

Cons:

✘ Repairs required

✘ Inspections and appraisals

✘ Buyer financing may fall through

✘ 6% agent commissions

✘ Longer timeline (30–90 days)

Option 2: For Sale By Owner (FSBO)

This saves on commissions but requires more work.

Pros:

✔️ No agent fees

✔️ More personal control

Cons:

✘ Hard for estate or probate properties

✘ You handle all paperwork

✘ Buyers expect discounts

✘ You must coordinate showings and marketing

Option 3: Sell to a Cash Home Buyer (Fastest and Easiest)

Most heirs in Houston choose a cash buyer, especially if the house needs work or if probate is dragging on.

Cash buyers offer:

No repairs
No cleaning
No showings
No closing costs
No realtor commissions
Fast closings (sometimes in 7–14 days)
Probate-friendly support

This is ideal if the property is older, full of belongings, or if multiple heirs want to sell quickly and move on.

Can You Sell a Houston Inherited Home Before Probate Ends?

Yes — but with an important detail.

You can receive offers and even sign a contract,

but you cannot close until the court grants authority.

Cash buyers familiar with probate often:

Hold the contract
Work with your probate attorney
Prepare all documentation
Wait patiently until probate is ready

This gives heirs peace of mind and helps avoid delays.

Documents You’ll Need to Sell an Inherited Property in Houston

You may need:

Death certificate
Will (if applicable)
Letters Testamentary / Letters of Administration
Valid ID for the executor
Mortgage payoff amount
Property tax statements
HOA information
Any lien documents

A probate attorney or cash buyer can guide you step-by-step.

Tax Considerations When Selling an Inherited House

Here’s the good news:

Texas has no state inheritance tax.

The main tax consideration is capital gains, but the IRS provides a major benefit called:

Step-Up in Basis

This resets the home’s value to the market value at the date of death.

Example:

Original purchase price: $110,000
Value at date of death: $280,000
Sale price: $290,000

You only pay taxes on the difference between $280,000 and $290,000 — not from $110,000.

This often saves heirs thousands.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Way to Sell an Inherited House in Houston?

If the house is in excellent condition and you don’t mind waiting, listing with a realtor may work.

But if the property needs repairs, has multiple heirs, or you simply want a fast and stress-free option, selling to a trusted Houston cash buyer is often the best solution.

It eliminates:

Repairs
Cleanouts
Commissions
Showings
Delays

And gives you a guaranteed, simple closing.

Ready to get your cash offer?

Contact – House Offer 365 today for a fair cash offer on your property!

Call Now: 281-985-9115

info@houseoffer365.com

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Sell an Inherited House in Houston: Complete Probate Guide + Fast Cash Option