Estate & Probate Services
Settling an estate? You don't have to carry it alone.
Losing someone is hard enough. Managing their home — often from another state, alongside attorneys, paperwork, and family — shouldn't add to the weight. I coordinate the entire sale so you can focus on what matters.
A clear path forward
The Estate Sale Blueprint
Four steps, fully coordinated — so an overwhelming process becomes a series of manageable decisions.
Assess & value
A no-obligation walk-through and a date-of-death valuation, plus a side-by-side "sell as-is vs. lightly improve" analysis so you never spend a dollar you don't have to.
Prepare
My vetted vendor network handles the heavy lifting — cleanout crews, cleaning, light repairs, security, and staging — coordinated on your behalf.
Market with showroom quality
Professional photography, drone, and video presentation through Sotheby's International Realty's global network to reach the right buyers and maximize the estate's value.
Negotiate & close
Skilled negotiation to the best terms, coordination with your attorney and the court timeline, and a smooth path to closing day.
For out-of-state heirs
I'm your boots on the ground.
Many of the families I help live hours — or time zones — away. You don't need to fly in and out. I become your local presence: meeting vendors, checking on the property, sending regular updates, and keeping everything moving.
- Meet and manage every vendor on site, on your behalf
- Regular photo and status updates so you're never in the dark
- Coordinate directly with your attorney and the court timeline
- Secure the home — locks, cleaning, and upkeep between steps
- Handle showings and offers so you can grieve, not juggle
Common questions
Washington estate & probate basics
Do I have to wait for probate to finish before selling?
Often, no. In Washington, an estate with "nonintervention" (independent administration) powers can typically list and sell without ongoing court confirmation once the personal representative is appointed. Timelines vary — I'll coordinate with your attorney so we move as soon as you're legally able.
Should we sell the home as-is or make improvements first?
It depends on the home and the market. Before you spend anything, I provide a side-by-side analysis of the likely net proceeds either way. Sometimes a light refresh pays off; often, as-is is the smarter, faster path. You decide with real numbers in hand.
What is a "stepped-up basis" and why does it matter?
When a property is inherited, its cost basis generally "steps up" to the fair market value on the date of death — which can significantly reduce capital-gains tax if you sell soon after. That's why a documented date-of-death valuation matters. I'm not a tax advisor, so I'll always recommend confirming specifics with a Washington tax professional.
How long does an estate sale usually take?
Once we're clear to list, a well-prepared North Sound home commonly finds a buyer in a matter of weeks, with closing 30–45 days after. The full estate process (appointment, creditor periods, distribution) can run several months — I keep the real-estate piece efficient within that.
There are several heirs who don't always agree. Can you help?
Yes. A big part of my role is being a calm, neutral professional third party. I keep communication clear and documented, present objective market data, and help the family reach decisions everyone can stand behind.
Sarah helped me sell my mom's home during a very difficult time. I'd absolutely recommend her for those going through major transitions — someone kind-hearted and capable of meeting you where you are.Christina C. · Estate sale, North Sound
No pressure, ever
Request a confidential review
Tell me a little about the estate and I'll personally reach out within one business day — by phone, video, or in person, whatever's easiest. There's no cost and no obligation.
Prefer to talk now? Call or text +1 206.309.9506.