How to Sell an Inherited House in St. Petersburg, FL: A Step-by-Step Guide

Inheriting a home can be both a blessing and a burden. Whether you’ve received a charming bungalow near Old Northeast or a fixer-upper in Central Oak Park, dealing with an inherited property in St. Petersburg, FL, comes with its own set of emotional, legal, and financial challenges.

If you’re asking, “How do I sell an inherited house in St. Petersburg?”—you’re not alone. Every year, many Florida residents inherit property from parents, grandparents, or relatives, and aren’t quite sure what to do next.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through:

  • The legal process of selling inherited property
  • Tax considerations you should know
  • Options for selling (as-is, with an agent, to a cash buyer)
  • Tips for faster, stress-free sales
  • And how to avoid common mistakes

Let’s break it all down.

Step 1: Understand the Probate Process in Florida

Before you can sell an inherited home, you often have to go through probate—a legal process that ensures the property is transferred properly.

What is probate?

Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will, settling debts, and distributing assets—including real estate.

When is probate required?

Probate is usually required unless:

  • The property was held in a trust
  • The deceased used joint tenancy with rights of survivorship
  • The house was designated with a transfer-on-death deed (rare in Florida)

If none of the above apply, probate must be opened in Pinellas County (where St. Petersburg is located).

How long does probate take?

It varies, but expect 3 to 9 months on average. Complicated estates or disputes can take longer.

Tip: Hire a probate attorney early. They can help navigate paperwork, court filings, and communication with heirs.

Step 2: Determine Ownership and Title

You need to clarify who legally owns the property after the original owner’s death.

  • If you’re the sole heir, the process is simpler.
  • If there are multiple heirs, you’ll need to work together to agree on the sale.
  • If the will was unclear or missing, the court may follow Florida’s intestate succession laws.

Once probate is complete, the court will issue a personal representative deed or order of distribution, giving you legal authority to sell.

Step 3: Evaluate the Property’s Condition

Inherited homes are often older or in various states of disrepair. Before deciding how to sell, assess the home’s:

  • Structural integrity (foundation, roof, electrical)
  • Maintenance history
  • Cleanliness or clutter (many homes are still full of belongings)
  • Mortgage status or existing liens

Ask yourself:

  • Is the home move-in ready?
  • Does it need cleaning, updates, or major repairs?
  • Are there unpaid utility bills or taxes?

Tip: You don’t need to renovate the entire house. Just knowing the condition helps you choose the best sales strategy.

Step 4: Decide How You Want to Sell

There are 3 main ways to sell an inherited house in St. Petersburg:

🔹 1. List with a Real Estate Agent

Best for: Updated or well-maintained properties in good neighborhoods

  • Full market exposure
  • Potential for higher offers
  • Requires cleaning, staging, and possibly repairs
  • Takes more time (average days on market: 30–60+)

Pros:

✅ Maximum visibility
✅ Best price potential

Cons:

⏳ Slower sale
💰 Commission fees
🧹 Prep work required

🔹 2. Sell to a Cash Buyer / Investor

Best for: Homes in poor condition, those needing quick sales, or situations involving out-of-town heirs

  • Fast closings (as little as 7–14 days)
  • No repairs or clean-up needed
  • Many cash buyers purchase as-is
  • No showings or open houses

Pros:

✅ Fast and convenient
✅ No repairs, no fees
✅ Works well for inherited homes with deferred maintenance

Cons:

💰 May sell below market value
📉 Limited buyer pool (mostly investors)

🔹 3. For Sale By Owner (FSBO)

Best for: Experienced sellers who want to save on commissions

  • Total control over the sale
  • Save 5%–6% in agent fees
  • Must handle marketing, paperwork, negotiations

Pros:

✅ No commissions
✅ Direct communication with buyers

Cons:

📋 More legal responsibility
📞 Must field inquiries and showings
⚖️ Higher risk if you’re not familiar with Florida real estate law

Step 5: Handle Remaining Belongings

Inheriting a home often means inheriting everything inside it—furniture, photos, documents, and even junk.

Options include:

  • Hiring an estate sale company
  • Renting a dumpster for cleanout
  • Donating usable items
  • Hiring a professional organizer or junk removal service

Pro tip: Take your time with sentimental items—but don’t feel guilty letting go of things you don’t need.

Step 6: Understand Capital Gains Taxes on Inherited Property

Here’s some good news:
When you sell an inherited house, you don’t pay capital gains on the original purchase price.

Instead, you pay based on the stepped-up basis—the home’s fair market value at the time of the previous owner’s death.

Example:

  • Grandpa bought the house in 1970 for $25,000
  • It’s worth $350,000 when he passes
  • You sell it a month later for $355,000
  • You may only owe capital gains on the $5,000 difference

Always speak to a tax advisor for accurate advice based on your situation.

Step 7: Prepare for Closing

Once you’ve found a buyer and agreed on a price, it’s time to:

  • Sign the purchase agreement
  • Coordinate with your probate attorney
  • Schedule inspections and appraisals (if required)
  • Sign final documents and hand over keys

If you’re working with a cash buyer, you may be able to close at a title company in just a few days—no lenders or long delays.

Challenges You May Face (And How to Handle Them)

🔸 Multiple Heirs Disagreeing

Solution: Hire a mediator or attorney to assist. Put everything in writing.

🔸 Delayed Probate

Solution: Start the process early, even before you decide to sell. Keep communication open with your attorney.

🔸 The House Has a Mortgage or Reverse Mortgage

Solution: The loan must be paid off at closing from sale proceeds. Contact the lender early to get the payoff amount.

🔸 The Property is Out of State

Solution: Consider working with a local real estate agent or investor who can handle everything remotely.

Benefits of Selling an Inherited House in St. Petersburg, FL

  • The local market is still strong, especially for homes priced under $500K
  • Investors are actively looking for as-is homes in central neighborhoods
  • Florida has no state income tax, which can make sales more profitable
  • St. Pete’s warm climate and amenities make inherited homes appealing to retirees and snowbirds

Should You Rent It Instead?

Some people consider renting an inherited home for extra income. While this can work, make sure you consider:

  • Management responsibilities (especially if you live out of town)
  • Maintenance costs and liability
  • Local landlord-tenant laws
  • Insurance and taxes

If you’re not ready to be a landlord—or if the home needs repairs—selling may be the easier path.

Final Thoughts: Selling an Inherited House Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

Inheriting a property can be emotional, especially if it belonged to someone close. But with the right information, guidance, and support, you can turn the process into a smooth, successful transition.

Key Takeaways:

  • Begin the probate process as soon as possible
  • Understand your legal rights as an heir
  • Choose the right selling strategy based on your timeline and goals
  • Don’t over-renovate—many inherited homes are perfect for as-is sales
  • Work with local professionals to reduce stress

Whether you decide to sell through a real estate agent, handle it yourself, or work with a cash buyer, just know: you have options.