Buying and selling real estate is big business across the country, and Wilmington, Delaware is no exception. As the population grows, the demand for housing continues to rise. But not all real estate transactions are created equal — especially when it comes to selling or buying probate property.
If you’ve recently inherited a home or are trying to help settle an estate, you might be wondering: What exactly is the probate process for a house in Wilmington? And more importantly — how do you sell a house in probate without unnecessary delays, confusion, or expenses?
We’re here to help you understand the full picture.
⚖️ What Is Probate and How Does It Affect Real Estate?
Probate is the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets to their heirs and beneficiaries. This includes homes, land, or other property that belonged to the deceased (also called the decedent).
If the decedent passed away with a will, the court will use the will to guide asset distribution. If there was no will, state probate laws dictate who receives what.
Real estate is often one of the most valuable (and most complicated) assets in an estate. That’s why it typically must go through probate before it can legally be sold — unless the property was held in a trust or owned jointly with rights of survivorship.
Learn more about your options here: Selling a house in probate
📝 Starting the Probate Process for a House in Wilmington
Here’s how probate usually works:
- File a petition with the local probate court — This begins the official process.
- Appoint an executor or administrator — Often a family member or attorney. This person will manage the estate, including selling the house.
- Inventory assets — The executor lists everything the decedent owned, including real estate.
- Order an appraisal — An independent appraiser will determine the fair market value of the home.
- Pay debts and taxes — Before distributing assets, the estate must settle outstanding obligations.
- Request court approval to sell the home — The court will typically require a hearing if multiple heirs are involved.
- List the home or accept a direct cash offer — Once approved, the property can be sold.
🏠 Selling a House in Probate — What Are Your Options?
Once you’ve cleared the initial legal steps, it’s time to sell the property. In Wilmington, you typically have two main options:
1. List the Property With an Agent
This option works well if the home is in great condition, has no title issues, and the heirs are all in agreement. However, you’ll need to:
- Make repairs and prepare the home for showings
- Pay agent commissions and closing costs
- Wait for inspections, appraisals, and lender approval
- Possibly go through additional court steps if multiple offers come in
2. Sell Directly to a Cash Buyer Like First Care Homes
If you prefer a faster, simpler route — without repairs or listing delays — consider selling your probate property directly to a local home buying company like First Care Homes.
At First Care Homes, we specialize in probate house purchases throughout Wilmington and Delaware. We can buy your inherited property:
✅ As-is, no repairs required
✅ Without showings or cleaning
✅ With flexible closing timelines — as fast as 7 days
✅ While helping you navigate the probate process
✅ And we pay all closing costs — no fees, commissions, or surprises
Get a fair cash offer here: Request an offer today
📞 Ready to Sell a House in Probate in Wilmington?
We know how stressful the probate process can be — especially when a house is involved. You’re already dealing with loss, legal documents, and court deadlines. Let us help simplify the sale so you can move forward.
👉 Contact us now or call (855) 896-7355
👉 Get your free, no-obligation cash offer here
👉 Visit sellmydelawarehousefast.com to learn more
We’ve helped many families in Wilmington navigate the probate home sale process, and we’d be honored to help you too. Let’s take this next step together — with clarity, compassion, and confidence.