How To Sell An Inherited House In California Without a Realtor?

April 7, 2025/Last Updated : April 24, 2025

Inheriting a house can be a blessing—but it can also bring stress, responsibility, and questions you weren’t expecting. If you’re thinking about selling the property but don’t want to deal with realtors, repairs, or long timelines, you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know.

Illustration of a woman considering how to sell her inherited house in California without a realtor, standing in front of a home with a for sale sign
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    What Does It Mean to Sell an Inherited Home Without a Realtor?

    Selling without a realtor means you’re either selling the home directly to a buyer or working with a home buying company like Semi Homes. This can save you time, reduce costs, and give you more control. But it also means you’ll need to handle certain steps differently—especially if probate is involved.

    Common Issues People Face When Inheriting a Home

    • The property still has a mortgage or bills attached

    • Multiple heirs are involved and don’t agree

    • The home needs serious repairs

    • You live out of state and can’t manage it

    • You don’t know what legal steps are required

    Your Options for Selling an Inherited House in California

    Inheriting a home brings up a big question: What should you do with it?
    There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your situation, timeline, and long-term goals. Here are the main options to consider:

     1. List the Property With a Realtor

    This is the most traditional route. A real estate agent can help you:

    • Market the property on the MLS

    • Arrange showings and open houses

    • Handle offers and negotiations

    Pros:

    • Potential for top-dollar sale

    • Professional guidance through the process

    Cons:

    • Requires cleaning, repairs, and showings

    • Agent commissions (typically 5–6%)

    • Can take weeks or months to close

    • May not be ideal if probate hasn’t cleared

    2. Rent the Property Out

    If the home is in good condition and in a rentable area, keeping it as a rental can create monthly income.

    Pros:

    • Long-term cash flow

    • Keeps the property in the family

    Cons:

    • Requires active management or hiring a property manager

    • You’ll be responsible for maintenance, repairs, and tenant screening

    • Still subject to property taxes and insurance

    • Probate may delay your ability to rent

     3. Sell the Property Directly (Off-Market)

    Selling off-market to a direct buyer or home buying company like Semi Homes is a flexible option — especially if the home needs work, you live out of state, or probate is still ongoing.

    Pros:

    • No repairs, cleaning, or showings

    • Faster closing timelines

    • No realtor fees

    • Many buyers will help with paperwork, tenants, and probate coordination

    Cons:

    • Offer may be below full market value

    • Important to vet the buyer (not all home buyers are the same)

    At Semi Homes, we work with inherited property owners across California — offering fair, transparent deals and helping with legal hurdles like probate or title issues.

    Find What It's Like Working with Semi Homes

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    Why Sellers Trust Semi Homes

    • We buy homes as-is (no repairs or cleaning)

    • We cover most closing costs

    • We work with attorneys, heirs, and lenders

    • We’ve helped dozens of California families through similar situations

    • You choose the timeline—fast or flexible

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Can I sell the home before probate is complete?

    It is possible to sell a property during probate. Here in California, there will need to be Administrator or Executor who is granted "Full Authority". Once the property is sold, the proceeds will go to the estate to pay off any outstanding debts then distributed to the heirs.

    2. Do all heirs have to agree to sell the inherited home?

    Yes, typically. If there are multiple heirs, everyone must consent or sign off. We can help mediate and offer a fair solution for everyone.

    3. Do I need to fix up the property before selling?

    Nope! We buy properties in any condition—even if they’re outdated, damaged, or full of belongings.

    4. How quickly can I sell without a realtor?

    Many sellers close in as little as 7–14 days. We move at your pace and guide you through every step.

    5. Is there any cost to get an offer?

    No. Our offers are 100% free and come with no pressure or obligation.


    Skip The Repairs, Agents, And Waiting.

    If you're ready to sell your inherited house in California without a realtor, get in touch with Semi Homes today.
    Fill out the short form below to get your no-obligation offer.