Managing an inherited property can be overwhelming. This checklist is designed to help you secure the home, manage logistics, and understand your options during the probate process.

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## Phase 1: Immediate Actions (First 7 Days)

*These steps prevent further loss or liability for the estate.*

- [ ] **Secure the Property**: Ensure all doors and windows are locked. If necessary, change the locks to prevent unauthorized entry.

- [ ] **Arrange for Care**: If there are pets, plants, or livestock, ensure they have immediate care and a long-term plan.

- [ ] **Secure Valuables**: Remove small high-value items (jewelry, cash, small electronics) and store them in a secure location.

- [ ] **Check Home Safety**: Turn off any appliances that aren't needed. In winter, ensure the heat is on a low setting to prevent pipes from freezing.

- [ ] **Notify Insurance**: Contact the homeowner’s insurance company. You may need a "vacant home" policy to ensure coverage remains active.

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## Phase 2: Logistics & Maintenance (First 30 Days)

*Keeping the property in good standing while legal work begins.*

- [ ] **Manage Utilities**: Keep water and electricity on. Cancel non-essential services like cable, internet, or landline phone.

- [ ] **Redirect Mail**: Set up mail forwarding at the post office to the Executor’s address.

- [ ] **Exterior Maintenance**: Arrange for lawn care or snow removal. A neglected exterior is a sign to burglars that the home is empty.

- [ ] **Inventory Assets**: Create a list of all significant furniture, appliances, and personal property inside the home.

- [ ] **Locate Important Documents**: Find the deed, recent tax bills, mortgage statements, and utility bills.

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## Phase 3: Valuation & Legal Prep

*Determining what the property is worth and how it can be handled.*

- [ ] **Order an Appraisal**: Get a professional appraisal to determine the "Date of Death" value. This is critical for tax purposes (Step-up in Basis).

- [ ] **Check Title & Liens**: Verify if there are any outstanding mortgages, HELOCs, or tax liens against the property.

- [ ] **Consult with Heirs**: If there are multiple beneficiaries, discuss everyone’s goals (e.g., one person wants to keep it, others want to sell).

- [ ] **Review Your Options**:

- **Keep it**: As a primary residence or vacation home.

- **Rent it**: To generate monthly income for the estate.

- **Sell it**: To liquidate the asset and distribute proceeds to heirs.

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## Phase 4: Preparing for Sale (If Applicable)

*Maximizing the value if the estate decides to liquidate.*

- [ ] **Professional Clean-out**: Decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Consider hiring a professional estate clean-out service.

- [ ] **Determine Repair Needs**: Identify "must-fix" items (leaks, safety issues) vs. cosmetic upgrades.

- [ ] **Choose a Sale Method**:

- **Traditional Listing**: Best for homes in good condition to get top market value.

- **As-Is Cash Sale**: Best for homes needing significant repair or for heirs wanting a fast, guaranteed closing.

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**Disclaimer**: This checklist is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified probate attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.