Understanding probate in Washington State can help families make informed decisions after the loss of a loved one. Probate is the legal process used to settle an estate, address debts, and distribute assets to the appropriate beneficiaries.
Not every estate requires probate. However, when a deceased person owns real estate, probate may be necessary to establish who has the legal authority to manage or sell the property.
Micheal Smith and Lydia Graham are Managing Brokers with Windermere Real Estate Lake Tapps, Inc. and Certified Probate Real Estate Specialists (CPRES). We help families, Personal Representatives, Executors, and Trustees understand the real estate portion of probate.
Serving King and Pierce Counties, including Auburn, Lake Tapps, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Puyallup, and Federal Way, we provide property evaluations, home preparation assistance, marketing, and guidance throughout the sale.
Our goal is to simplify the real estate process while working alongside your probate attorney and other trusted professionals.
Understanding the Washington Probate Process
Probate is a court-supervised process that helps settle a deceased person’s estate. Although every estate is different, the process often includes several important steps.
1. Filing the Will and Opening Probate
The original will, if one exists, is filed with the appropriate Washington court. When probate is necessary, an authorized person petitions the court to open the estate.
2. Appointing a Personal Representative
The court may appoint a Personal Representative to manage the estate. This person is responsible for carrying out important duties and following applicable legal requirements.
3. Identifying Assets and Addressing Debts
The Personal Representative identifies estate assets, determines their values, and addresses valid creditor claims. Real estate may be one of the estate’s largest assets.
4. Managing or Selling Estate Property
When a home needs to be sold, we can help evaluate its market value, coordinate property preparation, and manage the real estate transaction. The authority and approvals required for a sale depend on the estate’s circumstances.
5. Distributing Assets and Closing the Estate
After debts, expenses, and other requirements are addressed, the remaining assets can be distributed to the appropriate beneficiaries.
How We Can Help With Probate Real Estate
Micheal Smith and Lydia Graham help families throughout King and Pierce Counties navigate the real estate portion of probate. We work alongside probate attorneys and other professionals to make property sales easier to manage.
Whether you are preparing an inherited home for sale or simply exploring your options, we’re here to provide guidance.
Additional Washington Probate Resources
If you have questions about what probate is in Washington State, the Washington State Courts website provides information about the court system. You can also speak with a qualified probate attorney to learn which requirements apply to your estate.
This information is educational and is not legal advice. Consult a Washington probate attorney about your specific situation.
