How to Sell Your Inherited Property in Arizona Legally and Smoothly
To sell an inherited property in Arizona, you need to confirm legal ownership (often through probate), understand tax implications, prepare the home for sale, and work with a knowledgeable real estate professional like Long Le to navigate the process with ease.
Why Inherited Properties in Arizona Can Be Tricky
Inheriting a home can feel overwhelming—especially when you're grieving or out of state. Arizona’s inheritance laws, taxes, and probate procedures can make things complicated if you're not familiar with them. But with the right steps and expert help, the process doesn’t have to be stressful.
Step 1: Understand Probate in Arizona
What is probate?
Probate is a legal process that proves a will is valid and allows the transfer of property to heirs.
When Is Probate Required?
If the property was not held in a living trust or joint tenancy, probate is typically required.
Arizona allows a Small Estate Affidavit if the home’s value is under $100,000, which can bypass probate.
What You’ll Need:
Certified death certificate
Will (if available)
Property deed
Petition for probate (filed with county court)
Long Le works with trusted probate attorneys and can connect you with the right resources if you’re unsure where to start.
Step 2: Establish Clear Ownership
You can’t sell the property until the title is in your name. This typically happens:
After probate concludes
Or once the Small Estate Affidavit is approved
Check the Maricopa County Recorder or relevant county site to confirm ownership status.
Step 3: Consider Tax Implications
Capital Gains Taxes
When you inherit a property, the IRS applies a "stepped-up basis"—meaning the home's value is reassessed at the market rate at the time of the original owner’s death.
So, if:
Your parent bought the home for $150,000
It was worth $400,000 at the time of their passing
And you sell it for $410,000
You’d only be taxed on the $10,000 gain.
Arizona estate taxes?
Good news—Arizona does not have a state inheritance or estate tax.
Still, it’s wise to speak with a tax advisor. Long Le can connect you with local professionals who specialize in real estate taxation.
Step 4: Prepare the Home for Sale
Inherited homes often need work—especially if the previous owner lived there for decades.
Key Tasks:
Clean out personal belongings (an emotional process—go at your own pace)
Get a professional inspection
Make minor repairs or consider selling as-is (Arizona law allows this with proper disclosures)
Long Le can help you decide whether to make improvements or sell as-is based on your timeline and market conditions.
Step 5: Disclose Known Issues
Even with inherited property, you’re required to disclose material facts about the home’s condition.
Common inherited home issues:
Roof damage or leaks
Plumbing or electrical updates
Mold or pest infestations
Unpermitted additions
If you’ve never lived in the home, you can state that, but it’s still recommended to hire a licensed inspector.
Step 6: List the Property With a Local Expert
Selling inherited property in Arizona is easier with someone who knows the market and the legal process.
Why Work With Long Le?
Probate experience: Long has helped multiple families sell inherited homes without stress
Local insight: He knows how to price and market your home based on neighborhood trends
Trusted network: Access to probate attorneys, tax advisors, estate sale services, and contractors
Whether you’re in Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, or beyond—Long Le will guide you through every step.
Step 7: Sell Fast or Strategically—It’s Your Call
Inherited homes can be listed traditionally or sold for cash.
Want to sell fast?
Long Le can help you:
Market to cash buyers
Negotiate the best price
Close in 7–10 days
Prefer to sell for top dollar?
He’ll help you stage, market, and price your home for the highest return, even if you’re selling from out of state.
FAQs About Inherited Home Sales in Arizona
Do I have to go through probate if there’s a will?
Usually yes—unless the home was in a trust or held in joint tenancy.
Can I sell a home that still has a mortgage?
Yes. The mortgage must be paid off at closing from the sale proceeds.
What if there are multiple heirs?
All heirs must agree to sell. If there’s disagreement, you may need legal mediation or a partition action.
Can I sell as-is?
Yes. Arizona law allows as-is sales with proper disclosure.
Final Thoughts
Selling an inherited property in Arizona doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you're local or handling the estate from out of state, the key is understanding the legal steps and getting the right guidance.
Call to Action
Need help selling an inherited home in Arizona?
Contact Long Le for a no-pressure consultation. He’ll help you navigate probate, disclosures, and everything in between so you can move forward with confidence.
