Documents Required for Selling Inherited Property in Michigan
Understanding Michigan's Probate Rules For Selling Inherited Real Estate
If you’ve recently inherited a home in Michigan, you might be feeling overwhelmed.
On top of the emotional weight of losing a loved one, now you’re facing a stack of legal paperwork, court requirements, and unfamiliar real estate decisions.
It's a lot to manage, especially during a time of grief.
Whether you're trying to figure out if you're allowed to sell, what documents you need, or how to keep the process from dragging on for months, this guide can help.
We'll walk you through the essential documents required to sell inherited property in Michigan and what you can do to make the process smoother.

What This Topic Means in Michigan
In Michigan, you can't simply list and sell an inherited house right after a loved one passes away. Before any sale can take place, ownership must legally transfer to you or another authorized party. This typically involves going through probate — the court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing the estate. The court appoints a personal representative (sometimes called an executor or administrator) who is legally authorized to manage the deceased person's assets, including real estate.
This authorization comes in the form of Letters of Authority, which are issued by the probate court. You’ll also need a certified death certificate, and in many cases, you'll need the original property deed or title documentation, especially if the title must be transferred into your name before selling.
In some cases — like when the property was jointly owned or held in a trust — probate may be avoided. But for most Michigan homes passed down through inheritance, probate is required before any sale can move forward.
You can find more information and official probate forms at the Michigan Courts website and review legal statutes at the Michigan Legislature site.
How This Affects Selling an Inherited Home
If the paperwork isn’t in place, the sale of an inherited home in Michigan can be delayed indefinitely. Most title companies won’t approve a closing unless the seller can prove legal authority to transfer ownership — and that requires specific documentation.
Here are just a few of the common sale-stopping issues:
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You haven’t received Letters of Authority from the probate court
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The title is still in the name of the deceased with no clear legal pathway to transfer it
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Multiple heirs are disputing the sale or the value of the property
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You’re missing a certified death certificate or official court orders
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Outstanding property taxes or liens haven’t been addressed
Each of these issues can delay or derail a sale unless the right documentation is filed and accepted. Getting your paperwork in order not only reduces stress — it also protects you from legal and financial consequences down the line.
Common Scenarios You May Be Facing
The property is going through full probate
You’re the named personal representative in a will, or you’ve filed to become one through the probate court. You need to collect:
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Certified death certificate
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Original will (if applicable)
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Petition for Probate (Form PC-558)
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Letters of Authority (PC-571 or PC-572)
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Inventory of estate assets
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Court approval to sell the property (PC-681) if required
There is no will (intestate succession)
If your loved one passed away without a will, Michigan law determines who inherits what. You’ll need to petition the court to become the administrator of the estate, which includes:
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Death certificate
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Proof of heirship (PC-565)
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Letters of Authority
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Estate inventory
This can get complicated if multiple heirs disagree or live out of state.
The estate is considered small
If the entire estate — excluding the house — is worth less than about $15,000, and 28 days have passed since death, you may qualify to use Michigan’s small estate affidavit process. However, if the home is the main asset, you’ll usually still need to go through probate.
You’d need:
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Death certificate
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Completed Form PC-598 (Affidavit of Decedent’s Successor for Delivery of Certain Assets)
This may allow you to claim certain personal assets, but not real estate.
The home was held jointly or had a Transfer-on-Death (TOD) deed
In this scenario, the property might pass directly to a surviving co-owner or beneficiary. You’ll still need to:
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File the death certificate with the county’s Register of Deeds
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Provide proof of joint ownership or TOD designation
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Update the title into your name before selling
Even though probate may be avoided here, paperwork is still essential to clear the title and proceed with the sale.
Are You Trying to Understand Your Options?
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What Are Your Options?
1. Open probate and get Letters of Authority
This is the most common path. Once you file the will (if there is one), you’ll use Form PC-558 to open probate and request appointment as personal representative. Once approved, the court will issue Letters of Authority, which you’ll need to provide to the title company when selling the home.
2. File a petition to sell the property
If the estate is still in probate and the house needs to be sold to cover debts or distribute assets, you may need to file Form PC-681 — the Petition and Order for Sale of Real Estate. This provides court approval for the sale, especially helpful if heirs disagree or if the property is unoccupied and deteriorating.
3. Gather and prepare all documentation early
Being proactive will save you time. Here’s a checklist:
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Certified death certificates (get 3–5)
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Letters of Authority
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Original or certified copy of the will
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Proof of property ownership (deed/title)
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Property tax statements
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Utility bills (if the home is still active)
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Mortgage payoff information (if applicable)
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Court orders related to the estate
4. Work with probate professionals
Don’t try to do everything alone. A probate attorney or experienced investor familiar with Michigan’s process can guide you through timelines, form requirements, and title issues. Many people wait too long to ask for help, and it only increases the difficulty.
5. Avoid probate if possible — but know the rules
While trusts, joint tenancy, and TOD deeds may help avoid probate, you need to be sure the correct structure was in place before death. If not, probate is required. You can learn more from the official Michigan Probate Court site.
Final Thoughts
To better understand the full process of selling an inherited home — including steps after documentation, how taxes work, and options for fast cash sales — visit our main guide on Selling an Inherited House in Michigan.
Handling legal paperwork while grieving isn’t something anyone looks forward to. But when it comes to inherited property, getting the right documents in place early makes all the difference. It protects you, honors your loved one’s estate, and gives you the clarity and authority to move forward.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, that’s completely normal.
The good news is — you’re not alone. Resources are available, and help is just a phone call or message away.
Whether you need legal support or want a no-pressure conversation about your home sale options, we’re here to assist.
"When you mentioned that you would give us an offer within 24 hours and then close quickly I didn’t really believe that we would have the house sold in only 2 weeks. I’m glad I found you.”

Michelle L. - Michigan

FAQ: Documents Required to Sell an Inherited House in Michigan
What are Letters of Authority and why do I need them?
Letters of Authority—either Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration—are court‑issued documents granting the legal power to manage or sell the decedent’s assets. Michigan probate law requires them before real estate transactions can take place.
Can I sell the house before probate is complete?
Yes, but only if the court approves the sale via form PC‑681. The personal representative cannot legally transfer the property without that approval, even with the letters.
Do I need multiple death certificates?
Yes—originals and certified copies (usually 3–5): one for the probate court, one for the title company, one for the Register of Deeds, and perhaps lender, tax authority, or others.
What happens to property taxes during probate?
Tax obligations remain your responsibility. You must show taxes are paid or escrowed before closing. Property tax arrearages can delay title transfer if unpaid or prorated.
Can heirs avoid probate?
Only in limited cases—small estate affidavit for estates under around $15,000 after 28 days, or if the property passed by joint tenancy, TOD deed, or trust. Otherwise, probate is required for real estate.
See why so many people recommend us...
“Mr. Fassett – thank you for working with us to buy my Mom’s home after she passed away. When you mentioned that you would give us an offer within 24 hours and then close quickly I didn’t really believe that we would have the house sold in only 2 weeks. I’m glad I found you.”

Michelle L. - Michigan

“Thanks for buying my Mother’s home. It was a big help that you were able to buy it without us having to clean it out and get it ready to sell. My mother had accumulated lots of stuff and after the stress of her long illness I was exhausted and I dreaded dealing with all of it. I also liked it that you gave me a very fair price for the home. I’m on a fixed income and that really helped a lot.”

Henry G. - Michigan

“Dennis – thank you for helping us with our Mom’s home. This was a very traumatic experience for us, and we appreciated your patience with all the emotions we experienced during the process. You were really patient and understanding with us during the sale process, and we’re sure that Mom’s home will be in good hands. God Bless.”

Claudia and Nancy M. - Michigan

We Help Michigan Families Navigate These Situations Every Day

At Dennis Buys Houses, we’re not just cash buyers — we’re trusted problem-solvers who help Michigan families find real answers during difficult times.
Since 2004, we've been helping homeowners across Michigan sell their properties quickly and easily—without the stress of agents, repairs, or hidden fees.
We’re a family-owned, local business with deep roots in the community. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds and hundreds of homeowners in situations just like yours—whether they’re dealing with delinquent property taxes, foreclosure, or simply needing a fresh start.
If you're dealing with a tough family situation and don’t know where to turn, we’re here to help.
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Whether you’re ready to sell or just want to explore your options, we’re here for you. Call us today, and let’s talk about how we can make your situation easier.
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Additional Resources Relating to Selling an Inherited Property in Michigan:
Selling an Inherited House in Michigan: What You Need to Know
Can You Sell an Inherited House Without Probate in Michigan?
Capital Gains Tax on Inherited Property in Michigan
Family Disagreements When Selling Inherited Property
Selling an Inherited House to a Family Member
How Long Do You Have to Sell an Inherited Property in Michigan?
How to Sell an Inherited House in Poor Condition in Michigan
Inherited Property With Tenants — What Are Your Options?
Selling an Inherited House in Michigan: Step-by-Step Guide
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