How to Sell an Inherited House in Ocean County, NJ (Probate Guide)

Step by step in Ocean County

1. 1

   Find out whether there is a will

   Everything starts with one question: did the person leave a will? The Ocean County Surrogate issues letters testamentary to executors and letters of administration to administrators, so the answer decides which one you ask for. Check the home, the safe deposit box and the family attorney. Do not throw away any paper until you know.

2. 2

   Know the earliest date letters can issue

   The Surrogate's page says it cannot issue certificates on a will until the 11th day after the date of death. With no will, the wait is until the 6th day. You may begin the process earlier, and the certificates go out on the right day. Starting early saves time when the house needs attention.

3. 3

   Plan the visit and the payment

   The Toms River office takes walk-ins on weekdays during its posted hours. Families in the southern end of the county can use the Manahawkin center on Fridays, by appointment, through the same phone number. Bring cash, a check or a money order, because the office does not take cards.

4. 4

   Handle the inheritance tax and the waiver

   The Division of Taxation places a spouse, parent, child or grandchild in Class A, which owes no tax. A sibling is Class C, and anyone else, such as a nephew or a friend, is Class D. New Jersey also requires a tax waiver before real estate moves out of a decedent's name, and only the Inheritance Tax Branch can issue one. Ask an attorney or tax professional which form applies.

5. 5

   Deal with the shore-house details

   A vacant seasonal home can sit through a winter with no one watching it. Kaizen's county notes list storm-surge exposure and post-Sandy elevation requirements as local concerns. Gather insurance papers, flood information and any elevation certificate while the estate is opening. A buyer or title company will ask for them.

6. 6

   Choose a buyer once you hold letters

   With letters in hand, the executor or administrator can talk about price. List the house with an agent, keep it, or take a cash offer. A listing may bring more money when the house is in good shape, but it adds repairs, showings and commission. An attorney should review any contract before the estate signs.

Ocean County offices you may deal with

Ocean County probate questions