Probate is the court-supervised process of settling a deceased person's estate. In Florida, understanding probate is essential for anyone inheriting property or serving as a personal representative.
When Is Probate Required in Florida?
Probate is generally required when someone dies owning assets solely in their name real estate, vehicles, bank accounts without beneficiary designations, and personal property. Assets in living trusts or with payable-on-death designations may avoid probate.
Types of Probate Administration
Formal administration is the standard process for larger estates. Summary administration is available for smaller estates or when the decedent has been dead for more than two years. Disposition without administration may apply in very limited circumstances.
The Personal Representative's Role
The personal representative (executor) inventories assets, notifies creditors, pays valid debts, and distributes remaining property to beneficiaries. For real estate, this includes maintaining the property, paying taxes, and preparing it for sale if needed.
Property During Probate
The personal representative can sell real property during probate with court approval. Maintaining and preparing the property including cleanouts and repairs is often the most labor-intensive responsibility.
How Diamond Complete Helps
We work with executors and probate attorneys throughout Brevard County. Our services include estate cleanouts, asset purchasing, property preparation, and direct purchases of land and houses coordinated with the legal timeline.