In this profession, we see a lot of change. Change in the lives of everyday people. Good and bad. Taking all of the details into consideration is crucial, it’s the foundation of how we operate as advisors to those we serve. Six months ago, a friend of ours lost her father relatively quickly to a battle with cancer. The family rushed to organize legal documentation but sadly time was not on their side to setup an estate which meant the inevitable, probate.
What is probate? It’s the process of the State assessing the assets of the deceased and identifying the rightful heirs for proper distribution of any part of what left behind. In this case, our friends father left behind a residential property among other things. The will he had left behind was not enough to avoid the probate process. Only a trust would have prevented the lengthy probate process which tends to take anywhere from six months to a year depending on the complexity of the assets and/or identifying the rightful heirs.
The somber journey began. We helped initiate everything properly so our friend could manage what was needed after the passing of her loved one. Every step of the way, we helped her navigate the difficult elements of the sale such as needing to hire legal representation and preparing the property for sale.
The condition was questionable with years of deferred maintenance but that didn’t stop us from procuring multiple offers above asking price. We are proud of this fact! Why? Because of “vultures”. Our friend was bombarded with daily calls from agents, attorneys and investors claiming to be her solution. Offering below market value and trying to unethically push us out of the deal. The fact is selling the property “off market” was NOT in our clients best interest. The “long route” was necessary to secure the strongest & highest offer for our client. That meant putting the house on the market and filtering through ten, yes 10, offers which ultimately earned her family $15,000 more and in less than 20 days. Slow and steady wins the race. Whomever we represent, it is always to the fullest regardless of the work involved on our part. Obviously this should go without saying; but in this case, it could have been easier to sell it off market but who would that serve? At 1850 Realty, our priority is our client whether that’s a buyer or a seller because professional representation is real and necessary.
Are you going through a life change? Good or bad, we can help advise on all of your real estate needs. We’re only a call, text or email away.