
What to Do With Your Parents’ Home After They Pass: Your Step-by-Step Guide
No matter how young or old you are, losing a parent cuts deep.
Beyond the grief of their passing, you’re hit with the heavy task of settling their estate—and for so many, selling their parents’ home after they’re gone feels like an overwhelming mountain to climb. Sound familiar?
“Sorting out your parents’ estate after they pass is no walk in the park,” says Suzanne Damon, CEO of The Damon Home Team right here in Manchester, New Hampshire, with years of experience guiding families through selling their parents’ homes. “When you’ve got to handle the sale on top of everything else, it’s easy to miss the little things that matter.”
“Get yourself ready—emotionally first—for what’s ahead,” Suzanne advises, drawing from her deep well of know-how in Manchester’s real estate scene. She’s been there, helping clients just like you navigate this tricky terrain.

Step 1: Face the Feelings
(and the Facts)
First things first: why does this feel so heavy? It’s not just a house—it’s their house. The kitchen where Mom burned the toast, the backyard where Dad taught you to ride a bike. Selling it can feel like saying goodbye twice. But here’s the kicker: you can’t sell until you know how it’s legally yours. Was there a will? A trust? Nothing at all? My team and I start here—digging into probate, transfer deeds, or trusts—so you don’t have to wrestle with the legal mess alone.
Step 2: Who’s Calling the Shots?
If your parents named an executor, that’s your decision-maker. If not, it’s you and your siblings—and trust me, that can get messy fast. We step in to ID the players and notify everyone—creditors included—so you’re not stuck in a tug-of-war.

Step 3: Dodge the Drama What happens when one sibling wants to keep the home and another wants to sell? Sit down early—divvy up tasks, split proceeds, agree on a price. We can even bring in mediators if needed.
Step 4: Bring in the Pros (That’s Us!) You need someone local who understands probate, inherited property, and the emotional side of the sale. We can even introduce you to cash buyers if a fast sale is your goal.
Step 5: Untangle the Money Mess Your parents’ home likely comes with bills. Mortgage, utilities, even a reverse mortgage? We help track down accounts, keep things running, and avoid surprises.

Step 6: Keep It Safe
Empty homes attract trouble. We help secure it, update insurance, and protect valuables.
Step 7: Taxes—Don’t Sweat It
Selling may trigger taxes, but a stepped-up basis could reduce capital gains. We’ll explain it and connect you with tax experts.
Step 8: Sort the Stuff
Let heirs pick first, then organize an estate sale. Closure comes through this process, too.
Step 9: Prep It (Or Don’t!)
Want top dollar? We’ll advise on repairs. Prefer a quick sale? We’ll price it as-is.
Step 10: Price It Right and Sell
Sentiment says priceless, but we work from market data to set the right price and bring in serious buyers.
The Bottom Line: You’re Not Alone Every month you wait costs you. Let The Damon Home Team help shoulder the weight. We turn emotional overload into a SOLD sign, so you can keep the memories and let go of the stress.
Ready to take the first step?
Reach out today to schedule a no-pressure consultation and get clarity on your next move.
https://damonhometeam.com/