Can I sell an inherited house before probate is complete?

In most cases, you need to wait for probate to be complete or obtain court approval to sell during probate. An exception is property held in a trust, which can typically be sold without probate.

Do I owe taxes when I sell an inherited house?

You receive a stepped-up basis equal to the property's value at the time of inheritance. If you sell shortly after inheriting, you may owe little or no capital gains tax. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.

How long does probate take in Missouri before I can sell an inherited house?

Missouri probate typically takes four to six months for straightforward estates, though contested cases or larger estates can take longer. If the property was held in a trust or transferred via a beneficiary deed, you may be able to skip probate entirely.

Can I sell an inherited house before probate is complete in Missouri?

Generally, the estate must go through at least the initial stages of probate before a sale can close. However, a cash buyer can often work alongside the probate timeline and be ready to close as soon as the court grants authority to sell.

Do I have to pay capital gains tax when I sell an inherited house in Kansas City?

Inherited properties receive a stepped-up cost basis, which means your taxable gain is calculated from the property's value at the time of inheritance — not the original purchase price. This often significantly reduces or eliminates capital gains taxes. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

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What to Do When You Inherit a House You Don't Want

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April 10, 2025

Inheriting a house can be an unexpected burden — especially if the property is in poor condition, located far away, or comes with complications like back taxes or problem tenants. This guide explains your options when you inherit a house you don't want to keep.

Your Options When You Inherit an Unwanted House

When you inherit a house you don't want, you have three main options: sell it, rent it out, or transfer your share to another heir. For most people in this situation, selling is the most practical choice. The question is how to sell in a way that minimizes stress, cost, and time.

Dealing With the Probate Process

Before you can sell an inherited property, it typically must go through probate — the legal process by which the estate is administered. Missouri probate takes a minimum of six months. During this time, the executor has authority to manage the property. Once probate is complete, heirs can sell their interest in the property.

Handling Back Taxes and Deferred Maintenance

Many inherited properties come with accumulated back taxes, deferred maintenance, or both. These can be significant financial burdens. The good news is that in most cases, back taxes and other liens can be paid off from the sale proceeds at closing, so you don't need to pay them out of pocket before selling.

Selling an Inherited House As-Is

Selling as-is to a cash buyer is often the fastest and most practical option for inherited properties. You don't need to clean out the property, make repairs, or deal with the logistics of a traditional listing. We can work with your probate attorney and close on a timeline that works for the estate.

When Multiple Heirs Are Involved

If multiple heirs inherit a property together, all parties must typically agree to the sale. This can sometimes be complicated. A cash sale can simplify the process by providing a clear, straightforward transaction. If heirs can't agree, a partition action through the courts is another option, though it's more time-consuming and expensive.

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Still have questions about selling your house in Missouri or Kansas? Contact Midwest Equity Advisors to discuss your options or request a no-obligation cash offer.