Inherited a Home in Green Bay? Your Best Options for Selling
Inheriting a home in Green Bay can be both a financial opportunity and a responsibility. While the property may have sentimental value, maintaining it comes with ongoing costs such as property taxes, insurance, and repairs. Understanding your options—including navigating Wisconsin’s probate process—can help you make the best decision.
Understanding the Probate Process in Wisconsin
Before selling an inherited home, you may need to go through probate, a legal process that ensures the proper transfer of assets. In Wisconsin, probate is required unless the property was placed in a revocable living trust or has a transfer-on-death deed. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
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File the will – The executor submits the will to the Wisconsin Circuit Court in the county where the deceased lived.
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Appoint an executor – If not named in the will, the court will assign one.
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Inventory the estate – This includes the home’s fair market value and any outstanding debts.
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Settle debts and taxes – Mortgage payments, property taxes, and outstanding bills must be paid before the home can be sold.
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Distribute assets – Once debts are resolved, heirs receive their share of the estate.
Probate in Wisconsin can take anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate. If you’re looking to sell quickly, you may want to explore alternatives such as an expedited sale.
The Cost of Keeping an Inherited Home
Even if you don’t plan to live in the inherited home, you’ll be responsible for its financial upkeep. Here are some of the key costs:
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Property Taxes – Wisconsin homeowners pay an average of $3,344 per year in property taxes, with rates varying by county (Tax Foundation).
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Insurance – Insuring a vacant home can be costly, as many insurers charge higher premiums for unoccupied properties (National Association of Insurance Commissioners).
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Maintenance and Repairs – A neglected home loses value over time. Common expenses include roofing, plumbing, and lawn care, which can add up to thousands annually (HomeAdvisor).
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Utilities and Security – Keeping the lights on and preventing vandalism in an empty home are additional concerns.
Holding onto an inherited property can become expensive, especially if you don’t plan to use it.
Your Best Options for Selling an Inherited Home in Green Bay
1. Sell Traditionally Through a Realtor
Listing with a licensed real estate agent is an option if you want to maximize profit. However, it requires:
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Completing any necessary repairs.
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Covering realtor commissions (typically 5-6% of the sale price).
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Waiting for the right buyer, which can take months.
2. Sell to Easy Home Sale for a Fast Sale
If you prefer to sell quickly and avoid repairs, selling to a trusted home-buying company like Easy Home Sale is a great option. Benefits include:
✔ No Repairs Needed – Sell as-is, even if the home has damage.
✔ No Fees or Commissions – Keep more of your proceeds.
✔ Fast Closing – Get cash in as little as seven days.
Need to Sell an Inherited Home in Green Bay?
Selling quickly can help you avoid long-term expenses and probate delays. Easy Home Sale buys homes in any condition, offering a stress-free, fast closing process.
If this sounds like the right solution for you, don’t hesitate. Give us a call at 920-600-9259 or fill out the form on our website to get started. There’s no obligation—just an easy way to explore your options and see how we can help.
Why wait? Get your fair cash offer today and move forward with confidence