How to Sell Your Inherited Home Fast in Minnesota

Inheriting a home in Minnesota can come with a mix of emotions—grief, gratitude, and at times, stress. While the property may carry sentimental value, many heirs prefer to sell the home quickly to avoid ongoing costs, maintenance, or complications with multiple beneficiaries. Fortunately, Minnesota law provides clear pathways for selling an inherited home—efficiently and legally. This guide will walk you through the steps to sell your inherited house fast in Minnesota.

Step 1: Understand the Legal Process of Inheritance

When someone passes away and leaves a home to heirs, the property becomes part of their estate. Before it can be sold, the home must go through one of the following:

• Probate: A legal process to validate the will and settle the estate.
• Transfer on Death Deed (TODD): If the decedent filed this before death, the home can bypass probate and go directly to the named beneficiary.
• Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship: If the deceased owned the home jointly with someone else, ownership passes automatically to the surviving co-owner.

Quick Tip: Check how the property was titled and whether probate is necessary. Probate can delay the sale if not handled properly.

Step 2: Establish Ownership and Get Court Approval (if needed)

If the property is in probate, the executor or personal representative must be officially appointed by the court. They will have legal authority to sell the house. Depending on the estate plan or Minnesota probate laws, you may need court approval before selling.

Step 3: Settle Debts, Liens, and Taxes

Before selling, make sure the home is free from legal complications. This includes:

• Paying off the mortgage (if any)
• Handling any property tax arrears
• Clearing liens or legal claims against the property

In some cases, capital gains taxes may apply if the home appreciated in value—but heirs typically receive a stepped-up basis, which helps minimize tax burdens.

Step 4: Decide How You Want to Sell

You have a few options when it comes to selling an inherited property:

1. Traditional Listing with a Realtor

Pros:

• Can get market value
• Wide exposure to buyers

Cons:

• May take weeks or months
• Requires cleaning, repairs, and staging
• Involves commissions and fees

2. Sell to a Local Cash Home Buyer

Pros:

• Fastest route (as little as 7 days)
• No repairs, cleaning, or inspections needed
• No realtor commissions

Cons:

• May sell below market value (trade-off for speed and convenience)

3. Investor or House Flipper

Pros:

• Will often buy as-is
• May be open to creative deal structures

Cons:

• Similar to cash buyers—price can be lower than traditional retail buyers

Step 5: Prepare the Property (If You Have Time)

If you want to increase your chances of a quick sale at a higher price, take some time to:

• Remove personal belongings and clutter
• Make minor cosmetic repairs (paint, fixtures, landscaping)
• Consider professional cleaning

Even minimal improvements can boost appeal without major investment.

Step 6: Market the Property Effectively

If you’re listing the home traditionally, ensure it’s:

• Professionally photographed
• Priced competitively based on a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis)
• Listed on the MLS and other top platforms

You can also reach out to investors in Minnesota, especially those who specialize in inherited or probate properties, to get multiple offers quickly.

Step 7: Close the Sale and Distribute Proceeds

Once you accept an offer:

• Title and escrow companies handle closing
• Any remaining mortgage or liens are paid off
• The rest of the proceeds are distributed among heirs

If the estate is still in probate, court approval may be needed before finalizing the transaction.

Final Thoughts

Selling an inherited home in Minnesota doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With the right knowledge and support, you can turn a complex process into a smooth transition. Whether you decide to work with a real estate agent, a cash home buyer, or an investor, be sure to:

• Understand your legal role
• Set realistic expectations
• Act promptly to avoid extra costs

By doing so, you’ll be able to sell your inherited property fast—and with peace of mind.