How to Probate Real Estate Without an Attorney in Georgia   Introduction If you’ve inherited property in Georgia and aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Many families face confusion about how to handle real estate after a loved one passes away — especially when trying to avoid expensive legal fees. The good news? You can probate real estate in Georgia without an attorney if you follow the right steps. Step 1: Determine if Probate Is Required If the property was jointly owned with rights of survivorship, it might transfer automatically. But if the property was solely in the deceased person’s name, probate is required to legally transfer or sell it. Step 2: Identify the Right Probate Type Georgia offers several probate options: Solemn Form Probate (most common) Common Form Probate (simpler, but less final) No Administration Necessary (if all heirs agree and no debts remain) You can find all official forms on the Georgia Probate Court Standard Forms website. Step 3: File the Petition File your petition in the probate court of the county where the deceased person lived. Bring: Death certificate Will (if one exists) Names and addresses of all heirs Once the court approves your petition, you’ll receive Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary, giving you authority to manage the property. Step 4: Handle Debts and Taxes Before transferring or selling, make sure all debts and taxes are paid from the estate. Keep receipts and records — the court may require proof. Step 5: Transfer or Sell the Property Once the court grants authority, you can record a new deed transferring the property or file a Petition for Leave to Sellif needed. Always record the new deed in the county’s Superior Court Clerk’s office.   Probating real estate in Georgia doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right forms and careful attention to detail, you can successfully handle the process on your own. If you’re managing a probate home in Georgia, I’m a Probate Certified Realtor® with hands-on experience helping families sell estate properties quickly and respectfully.   Disclaimer: These examples are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. It is recommended to consult with a legal professional to draft a disclaimer that fits your specific needs and complies with all relevant laws. 

Inheriting a house in Georgia can be both a blessing and a challenge. Whether you plan to sell it, rent it, or move in, understanding the probate process is essential before making any decisions. Step 1: Confirm Ownership Check how the property is titled. If it was owned jointly, probate might not be necessary. If it was solely owned, you’ll need to go through probate to transfer ownership legally. Step 2: File for Probate File a petition in the county probate court where the decedent lived. Once approved, you’ll receive authority to manage or sell the property. Step 3: Prepare the Property for Sale Most inherited homes need some cleanup, repairs, or upgrades. Focus on: Removing personal belongings Deep cleaning and painting Fixing visible issues (roof, flooring, etc.) If the estate doesn’t have funds, a probate realtor can help coordinate improvements and deduct costs from the sale proceeds. Step 4: List with a Probate Certified Realtor Probate sales require specific documentation and court compliance. Working with a Probate Certified Realtor®ensures: Correct contract language Court approval for sale (if required) Coordination between heirs and attorneys Step 5: Close and Distribute Funds Once the home sells, proceeds are used to pay estate debts, then distributed to heirs according to the will or Georgia intestacy laws. Need to sell an inherited home in Georgia? I’m a Certified Probate Specialist who has successfully helped families complete probate sales across Metro Atlanta and beyond.?? Contact me today for a free property evaluation and probate checklist.     Disclaimer: These examples are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. It is recommended to consult with a legal professional to draft a disclaimer that fits your specific needs and complies with all relevant laws. 

 Understanding the Georgia Probate Court Process for Real Estate   Introduction Probate court can feel intimidating, but the process is actually straightforward once you understand the steps. Here’s how Georgia probate works when a house or other real estate is part of the estate. Step 1: File in the Right County Probate starts in the probate court of the county where the deceased lived. Each court uses the same standard forms, available at the Council of Probate Court Judges of Georgia. Step 2: Notify Heirs and Creditors The court requires you to notify all heirs and sometimes publish a notice in the local newspaper so creditors can come forward. Step 3: Receive Court Authority Once approved, the court issues: Letters Testamentary (if there’s a will), or Letters of Administration (if no will). This gives the executor or administrator authority to manage estate property. Step 4: Handle Estate Property The executor can then: Pay off debts Maintain or sell real estate Distribute remaining assets to heirs If selling property, the court may require you to file a Petition for Leave to Sell. Step 5: Close the Estate Once everything is handled, you’ll file a final accounting or petition for discharge to officially close the estate.   Every Georgia county (like Henry, Clayton, Gwinnett, Dekalb, or Fulton) may have small differences in forms or fees, so always double-check with your local probate court clerk. Navigating the Georgia probate court system doesn’t have to be stressful. I help families simplify the process and sell estate homes efficiently. Call Vee Wilson at 561-350-6527  to get started today.   Disclaimer: These examples are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. It is recommended to consult with a legal professional to draft a disclaimer that fits your specific needs and complies with all relevant laws.