Sell an inherited house, without the cleanout.

In Michigan, if the house went through probate, the county probate court (Wayne County Probate Court for a Detroit house) appoints a personal representative and issues Letters of Authority. That person signs the sale. If the owner recorded a Lady Bird deed (an enhanced life estate deed), the house passes straight to the named beneficiaries without probate.

In Ohio, the executor or administrator appointed by the county probate court signs, sometimes with the court's approval, depending on the will. If the owner recorded a transfer-on-death designation affidavit, the beneficiary records an affidavit of confirmation with the county and can then sell. When several heirs inherit together, every owner signs.

There's no legal deadline to sell an inherited house, but it isn't free to hold. Property taxes keep coming, and unpaid taxes can eventually lead to tax foreclosure. Many homeowner policies limit coverage once a house sits vacant, so call the insurer and ask about a vacancy policy. Utilities, lawn care and winter freeze protection add up, and an empty house is an easy target for break-ins.

That's why many families sell sooner rather than later, even if probate is still open. The purchase agreement can be signed early, with the closing set for when the paperwork is done.

Inherited property usually gets a “stepped-up” tax basis: its value for tax purposes resets to roughly what it was worth on the date of death. If you sell soon after inheriting, there's often little or no capital gain to report. Rules vary by situation, so confirm with a tax professional before you sell.

Source: IRS Publication 551, Basis of Assets.