Camden, NJ asked in Estate Planning and Real Estate Law for Pennsylvania

Q: My husband passed away and he had no will, so the house went in the name of the estate, with me as the executor.

I am looking to sell the house, but am unsure if I can if it is in the name of the estate. Do I need a realtor, or can I sell on my own?

1 Lawyer Answer
Mark Scoblionko
Mark Scoblionko
Answered
  • Allentown, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: If your husband had no Will, you would be an "Administratrix," not "Executrix." However, that is not an important difference. As Administratrix, you have the right to execute a deed to sell the home. I think that you are likely mistaken that the house is in the name "of the estate." It may have been an included asset in the estate, but that does not put the house in the name of the estate. There is no requirement that you have a realtor.

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