Sell Parent's House- Real Estate Step by Step Plan

 

DISCLAIMER:  This is not intended to be legal advice.  This is a helpful checklist to get you started in the process if you have to sell a parent's home as part of an Estate Plan.  Always seek legal advice from licensed attorneys. 


1. Family Alignment & Authority

  • [ ] Confirm everyone agrees on the plan (sell now / clear then sell / hold temporarily)
  • [ ] Verify Power of Attorney or legal authority to act
  • [ ] Identify who will make decisions and who will be updated
  • [ ] Gather key documents (POA, will, deed, insurance, tax records)

 


2. Financial & Tax Preparation

  • [ ] Review parent’s financial needs for assisted living
  • [ ] Consult CPA/financial advisor about tax implications
  • [ ] Confirm eligibility for capital gains exclusion
  • [ ] Set a budget for repairs, cleaning, and staging
  • [ ] Decide whether to sell traditionally or “as‑is”

 


3. Home Inventory & Belongings (SEE DETAILED Room-By-Room Cleanout Checklist)

  • [ ] Walk through the home and photograph each room
  • [ ] Secure valuables (jewelry, documents, collectibles)
  • [ ] Identify items needing appraisal
  • [ ] Schedule time with siblings to choose sentimental items
  • [ ] Arrange donation pickup or drop‑off
  • [ ] Hire estate‑sale or clean‑out service if needed

 


4. Home Preparation

  • [ ] Cancel or transfer utilities as appropriate
  • [ ] Change locks if necessary
  • [ ] Deep clean the entire home
  • [ ] Complete minor repairs (leaks, broken fixtures, paint touch‑ups)
  • [ ] Improve curb appeal (mow lawn, trim shrubs, fresh mulch)
  • [ ] Decide on staging (full, partial, or light styling)
  • [ ] Update insurance to vacant‑home coverage if applicable

 


5-8. With Help of your Realtor

5. Listing Consultation

  • [ ] Review a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
  • [ ] Review recommended listing strategy
  • [ ] Confirm communication plan and timeline
  • [ ] Prepare listing agreement

 


6. Listing Preparation

  • [ ] Complete final repairs and staging
  • [ ] Approve professional photography
  • [ ] Review and approve listing description
  • [ ] Confirm showing instructions (lockbox, schedule, access)
  • [ ] List the home on the market

 


7. Showings & Offers

  • [ ] Keep home clean and show‑ready
  • [ ] Review offers with agent
  • [ ] Accept an offer
  • [ ] Negotiate repairs or credits if needed

 


8. Closing Process

  • [ ] Provide POA or estate documents to title company
  • [ ] Review settlement statement
  • [ ] Sign closing documents, give keys to buyer, Receive sale proceeds
  • [ ] Document everything for estate records

 


9. After the Sale

  • [ ] Notify family of final sale and proceeds
  • [ ] Allocate funds for parent’s care or investments
  • [ ] Store closing documents securely
  • [ ] Update estate plan if needed
  • [ ] Celebrate completing a major emotional and logistical milestone