Family Disagreements When Selling Inherited Property

Why This Situation Can Be So Overwhelming in Michigan

Losing a loved one is already emotionally draining—but inheriting a house along with your siblings can add confusion, conflict, and legal headaches.

If you're dealing with a family home that you didn’t expect to co-own—and everyone has a different idea about what to do next—you’re not alone.

These situations are especially common in Michigan, where property laws can make things more complicated if even one person refuses to cooperate.

This guide was written to help you understand what to expect, what’s possible, and how to move forward—together or through legal channels.

What This Topic Means in Michigan

In Michigan, inherited property shared by siblings is generally owned as tenants in common, meaning each heir owns a fraction of the property. This legal structure allows each person to decide independently whether they want to keep or sell their share—which sounds fair until disagreements arise. If even one co-owner refuses to sell, the entire transaction can be blocked.

To address this, Michigan enacted the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act (PA 231 of 2023), which outlines a formal process for resolving disagreements. If a sibling wants to sell but the others don’t, the law requires an appraisal, notification of all parties, and a chance for the remaining heirs to buy out the seller’s share. If no one buys them out, the court can order a sale through a fair, open-market process—not a public auction that might undercut the home’s value.

How This Affects Selling an Inherited Home

Disagreements between family members can delay or derail the home sale process entirely. Here’s how:

Delays: One heir refusing to sign off on a sale can bring everything to a halt—even if everyone else agrees.
Buyout Conflicts: One person may want to buy out the others, but disagreements over the home’s value often block progress.
Occupancy Issues: A sibling living in the house rent-free might resist any plans to sell or cooperate.
Legal Costs: When informal talks fail, you may need legal help or court action, which adds time, stress, and money.

In cases involving multiple executors or a family trust, decisions about selling may require unanimous approval or legal interpretation, making things even more complex.

Common Scenarios You May Be Facing

One sibling refuses to sell
You want to move on, but your brother is living in the house and won’t agree to list it. This is common and legally solvable—but emotionally difficult.

You want to keep the house but others want to sell
You may be able to buy out your siblings’ shares with their agreement or through a court-guided process. An appraisal will likely be required.

The property is still in probate or held in a trust
If the house hasn’t been transferred into the heirs’ names yet, or if multiple trustees can’t agree, you’ll need to involve the probate court.

One of the heirs is unresponsive or missing
You can still move forward legally. The Michigan Courts Self-Help Center explains how to petition the court to resolve the matter.

Are You Trying to Understand Your Options?

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What Are Your Options?

1. Negotiate and document everything
The ideal solution is a written agreement. If everyone agrees on a price and process, you can sell without court involvement.

2. Offer a buyout
If you want to stay in the home, offer to purchase your siblings’ shares. A formal appraisal ensures fairness and may prevent further dispute.

3. Mediate or involve a third party
A neutral mediator or experienced probate attorney can help everyone feel heard and move the process forward.

4. Use Michigan’s partition law
If no agreement is possible, file a partition action under Michigan’s Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act. The court will ensure a fair process, starting with an appraisal and allowing time for a buyout before forcing a sale.

5. Involve the probate court
If the estate is still in probate or part of a trust, the court can provide direction or appoint someone to manage the sale process.

6. Sell to a buyer experienced with inherited property
Some buyers specialize in working with multiple heirs. They may help coordinate signatures, paperwork, and timelines, taking the pressure off your family.

Final Thoughts

If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. Visit our complete guide on Selling an Inherited House in Michigan to learn more about probate, property title, taxes, and what to do when multiple owners are involved.

Inheriting a home with your siblings should be a shared experience, not a source of stress.

But when disagreements get in the way of making progress, it helps to know you have legal options—and you’re not the first family to face this. Whether you try to work things out together or need help navigating Michigan’s legal system, there are fair paths forward.

If you want to talk about your specific situation and explore your options, we’re here to listen and help—no pressure, no obligation.

"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: Family Disagreements When Selling Inherited Property

What happens if one sibling refuses to sell an inherited house in Michigan?
You may need to file a partition action in probate court to force a sale if you can’t reach an agreement.

Can I buy out my siblings’ shares of an inherited property?
Yes. You’ll typically need an appraisal to determine value and a written agreement signed by all parties.

How do I force the sale of inherited property in Michigan?
You can petition the court using a partition action under the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act.

What if the house is held in a trust and co-trustees can’t agree?
You may need to involve the probate court to resolve the disagreement or authorize a sale.

What if one of the heirs can’t be located?
The court may allow notice by publication and appoint a representative to move forward with the property.

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

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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.

Start here:

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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.

No pressure. No judgment. Just real help when you need it.