Real Estate
Through Probate
Selling an estate property is complicated enough, especially when you're also grieving. Marie Sanjurjo handles the real estate side with care, keeping your family informed and the process moving.
Probate real estate comes up during one of the hardest moments a family faces. At Blue Mar, we handle the property side carefully and efficiently, so you can focus on everything else. We'll keep the process transparent and answer every question along the way.
— Marie I. Sanjurjo, Broker/Owner, Blue Mar Real Estate GroupUnderstanding the Process
What Is Florida Probate?
Probate is the court-supervised legal process by which a deceased person's estate is administered, debts paid, and assets distributed to heirs. In Florida, this process is handled by the Circuit Court in the county where the decedent lived.
Real property owned solely by the decedent must pass through probate before it can be sold or transferred. As the personal representative or an heir, understanding this process and working with the right team, makes an enormous difference in both outcome and experience.
Florida is a judicial state: probate proceedings are supervised by the court. Working with both a qualified probate attorney and an experienced probate real estate agent is essential for a smooth process.
Florida Probate Timeline
How Long Does It Take?
1–3 Months
Summary Administration
Available for smaller estates (under $75K excluding homestead). Streamlined process with less court oversight.
6–12 Months
Formal Administration
Standard probate for most estates. Involves full court supervision, creditor notification period, and formal inventory.
1–3+ Years
Contested Estates
When heirs dispute the will, ownership, or distribution, litigation can extend the process significantly.
Step by Step
The Florida Probate Process
Appointment by Court
The Personal Representative (PR) is formally appointed by the Florida Circuit Court to administer the estate.
Notice to Creditors
A notice is published in a local newspaper for 3 months, allowing creditors to file claims against the estate.
Inventory of Assets
The PR creates a formal inventory of all estate assets, including real property, with estimated values.
Pay Debts & Taxes
Valid creditor claims, estate taxes, and administrative expenses are paid from estate assets.
Real Property Sale or Transfer
With court approval if required, real property is sold on the open market or transferred to heirs per the will.
Final Distribution & Closing
Remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries and the estate is closed through the court.
Your Choices
Options for Estate Real Property
Keep the Property
Heirs can refinance the property into their own name and either live in it or rent it as an investment.
Sell the Property
The most common option, sell at market value and distribute proceeds among heirs according to the will or state law.
Buyout Other Heirs
When multiple heirs are involved, one can buy out the others' interests to become the sole owner.
Rent the Property
Generate ongoing income while the estate is being settled or while heirs decide on a long-term plan.
Quick Cash Sale
When the estate needs to close fast, whether due to financial pressure, property condition, or out-of-state heirs, a direct cash sale can close in as little as 7–14 days with no repairs, no staging, and no waiting.
In some probate situations, a traditional listing isn't the best path, especially when the property needs significant repairs, multiple heirs need a fast resolution, or the estate simply can't wait months for a conventional sale. If a fast, as-is cash sale is what the estate needs, Miami FL House Buyers specializes in purchasing probate properties quickly and hassle-free. Marie can help you evaluate whether a market listing or a direct cash offer is the right move for your family's situation.
Marie's Probate Expertise
Marie Sanjurjo has worked with Personal Representatives, estates attorneys, and families throughout Miami-Dade County. She brings not only real estate expertise but genuine care for every family she works with.
- Works closely with your probate attorney to coordinate timelines
- Manages property preparation, pricing, and marketing
- Communicates clearly with all heirs and interested parties
- Handles out-of-state Personal Representatives with ease
- Understands the emotional sensitivity required
- Delivers accurate market valuations for estate purposes
- Bilingual: English and Spanish
Common Questions
Probate Real Estate FAQs
Does all real estate in Florida go through probate?+
How long does Florida probate take?+
Can an estate home be sold before probate closes?+
What are Florida's homestead protections in probate?+
How do I find a good probate real estate agent?+
Important: This page provides general information about Florida probate real estate. It is not legal advice. Please consult a qualified Florida probate attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
We're Here to Help Your Family
Every probate situation is different. Marie offers a free, confidential consultation to talk through your property, your timeline, and what makes the most sense for your family.