Inheriting a home can feel overwhelming—especially if the property is vacant, needs repairs, or there are multiple heirs.
The goal in the first few weeks is to protect the home’s value, avoid costly mistakes, and choose the selling path that fits your situation.
Step 1: The First 48 Hours (Do This First)
1) Confirm who has authority to act
Before signing anything, make sure the right person has legal authority to make decisions (executor/personal representative or trustee).
If there are multiple heirs, select one point of contact to keep communication clear.
2) Secure the property
Change locks, secure windows/doors, and remove obvious valuables or sensitive paperwork. Vacant homes can create problems quickly.
3) Confirm insurance coverage
Many homeowner policies restrict coverage when a home is vacant. Call your insurer immediately to confirm coverage and ask if a vacant dwelling policy is needed.
4) Stabilize utilities to prevent damage
Keep electricity on for security and inspections. Make a clear plan for water depending on your ability to monitor the property and reduce leak risk.
Step 2: Choose the Right Selling Path
Most inherited homes fit one of these three options:
- Option A: Cash Offer (As-Is) — Fastest, least effort, avoids repairs and cleanout in many cases.
- Option B: MLS Listing (As-Is) — Maximum exposure, may produce a higher price, but takes more time and coordination.
- Option C: Light Prep + MLS — Higher retail appeal, but only works when repairs/cleanout are manageable and the timeline allows.
A helpful rule: decide what matters most—speed, net proceeds, and effort.
Most families can optimize one or two, but rarely all three.
When a Cash Offer Often Makes Sense
A cash offer is often the best fit when:
- The home needs significant repairs or has deferred maintenance
- The property is filled with belongings and cleanout feels overwhelming
- Heirs live out of state and need a simple, coordinated solution
- The estate has ongoing holding costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities)
- You want certainty and a defined closing date
How to Compare Cash Buyers (Quick Checklist)
If you’re considering a cash offer, compare more than the headline price. Ask for:
- Proof of funds
- A clear closing timeline (and whether you can choose your closing date)
- Defined inspection terms (avoid vague “we’ll see” language)
- Clarity on assignment (confirm who is actually buying)
If you want the most confidence, collect 2–3 written offers and compare terms side-by-side.
A Simple 30-Day Plan (Week by Week)
Week 1: Stabilize
- Confirm authority and select a point of contact
- Secure the property and confirm insurance coverage
- Set utilities and create a simple property file (bills, documents, known issues)
Week 2: Decide + Line Up Support
- Choose: cash offer vs as-is listing vs light prep
- Plan cleanout (family, donation, estate sale, junk removal)
- Confirm holding costs and timeline
Week 3: Execute
- If cash offer: finalize terms and select a closing date
- If MLS: schedule photos, showings plan, and disclosures
Week 4: Finalize
- Compare offers by price, net, timeline, and certainty
- Move to contract and close with a clear plan
Need a Simple, As-Is Sale?
JMS Home Buyers helps families sell inherited homes in North Carolina and South Carolina with a straightforward process.
No repairs required. No “open house” stress. Choose a closing date that fits your timeline.
- As-is purchase (repairs not required)
- Fast, defined timeline
- Clear terms and transparent process
- Ideal for vacant homes, deferred maintenance, or heavy contents
Next step: Request a no-obligation cash offer.