When a parent passes away, the emotional weight alone can be overwhelming. Add property responsibilities to the mix, and it’s no surprise so many people ask: “Can I sell my parents’ house if I was their Power of Attorney?” This is one of the most common situations we hear at Heartland Funding Inc., and it’s why it’s so important to understand what you need to know about inheriting real estate in Chicago. Here’s what you need to know about inheriting real estate in Chicago and what steps to take next, without overwhelming yourself in the process.
POA Ends at Death—Now What?
First, let’s clear something up: Power of Attorney is only valid while someone is alive. As soon as your parents pass, the POA ends. You no longer have legal authority to sell the house under that document, even if it gave you control during their lifetime.
So, what now?
If your parents had a will and named you the executor, you’ll need to be formally appointed by the probate court before doing anything with the house. If they didn’t leave a will, you can still apply to be the administrator of the estate. Either way, you need court approval before you can sell the property.
What Probate Means for You
Probate sounds intimidating, but it’s simply the legal process that allows someone (like you) to manage the estate and carry out your parents’ wishes. Once you’re appointed as executor or administrator, you’ll be able to legally sell the home, whether to a traditional buyer or an investor like us.
During this time, you’re also responsible for paying the bills related to the house: property taxes, utilities, insurance, and any remaining mortgage. All of that can feel like a lot.
Do You Want to Keep the House—Or Let It Go?
Inheriting a home can be emotional. Maybe it’s the house you grew up in. Or maybe it hasn’t been updated in 30 years and needs major repairs. The decision to keep, rent, or sell the property isn’t easy, and there’s no right or wrong choice. What matters most is doing what’s best for your life today.
If you’re leaning toward selling, know that you don’t have to fix anything. You don’t have to clean out every drawer. And you don’t have to list it with a Realtor if that feels like too much.
We’ll Take the House In As-Is Condition
At Heartland Funding Inc., we work with families in Chicago going through exactly what you’re facing. We buy inherited homes in as-is condition. That means:
- No repairs
- No inspections
- No open houses
- No need to sort through decades of stuff
You take what you want, leave the rest, and walk away with a fair cash offer.
Ready for Help?
If you’re not sure what to do next, we’re here to walk you through the process. We can talk about your situation, help you understand your options, and make you an offer that reflects the home’s current condition, without pressure or obligation.
📞 Call Heartland Funding Inc. today at (800) 255-8250 or fill out the form below. You don’t have to handle everything alone.