Can You Sell an Inherited Home If Probate Isn't Finished Yet?

What Missouri and Kansas Families Need to Know

TLDR: Yes, you can often sell an inherited home in Missouri or Kansas before probate is finished, but it depends on how the property is titled and whether a court-appointed executor or administrator has legal authority. In many cases, you can accept an offer and prepare the sale during probate, though the final closing usually requires court approval. Families don’t need to make repairs, clean out belongings, or list with an agent. Homes can be sold as-is, with the title company and probate attorney handling all legal steps.

Losing a loved one is never easy. When you inherit a home, it often comes with legal questions, emotional weight, and a lot of "what now?"

One of the biggest concerns we hear from local families in Kansas City is: "Can we sell this house if probate isn’t over yet?"

The short answer: sometimes yes. But it depends on how the property was titled, whether there’s a will, and what stage of probate you’re in.

At Riverfront Home Buyers, we’ve helped dozens of families across Missouri and Kansas navigate inheritance sales. We have helped during probate, after probate, and even in tricky title situations. Here’s what you need to know if you're thinking about selling a house that hasn’t cleared probate yet.

1. Start with How the Property Was Titled

If the home was jointly owned with rights of survivorship (like with a spouse), it may not need to go through probate at all. The title may pass automatically to the surviving owner.

If the property was solely in the deceased person’s name, then probate is likely required. In that case, only the court-appointed executor or personal representative can sell the home.

We’ll help you determine what’s legally possible based on the title and paperwork.

2. You Can Usually Prepare the Sale During Probate

In most cases, the property can be appraised, cleaned out, and even shown to potential buyers while probate is still in progress.

In Missouri, some counties allow you to sign a sales contract during probate, as long as final closing doesn’t happen until court approval.

In Kansas, timelines vary by county and judge—but it’s common to line up a buyer and close after court permission is granted.

Riverfront works closely with estate attorneys to ensure every sale is compliant with state law and probate timelines.

3. You Don’t Need to List the House or Do Repairs

If you're selling an inherited home during probate, the last thing you need is added stress.

With Riverfront:

• You don’t need to fix anything

• You don’t need to clean it out

• You don’t need to wait for the court to finish before getting started

We’ll provide a clear, written offer and handle coordination with the probate attorney, title company, and all heirs—so you can focus on what matters.

4. Selling As-Is Can Help Preserve Family Harmony

We’ve seen it firsthand: selling a home without repairs, open houses, or disagreements over value can help prevent conflict between siblings and heirs.

We’re a local, veteran-owned company—not agents or out-of-state investors—and our goal is to make this part of the process as smooth and respectful as possible.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to wait for probate to finish to start exploring your options. And you don’t have to list the house or fix it up either.

If you inherited a home in Missouri or Kansas and want to understand your timeline, options, and next steps—we’re here to help.

No pressure. No judgment. Just a clear, local solution from people who’ve walked this road with other KC families.

Call us at 816.448.8164 or fill out this short form to see what’s possible.

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FAQ: Can You Sell an Inherited House Before Probate Is Finished in Kansas or Missouri?

Can we sell an inherited home before probate is complete in Missouri?

In many cases, yes. The court-appointed personal representative can enter a contract to sell the home, but the sale often can’t close until the court gives final approval. Riverfront works closely with your attorney to ensure everything stays legal and on schedule.

What if the home is in probate but we already have a buyer?

That’s common. You can accept an offer and schedule closing for after probate approval. In some counties, you can petition the court to expedite the process if timelines are urgent.

Can we sell a house during probate in Kansas?

Yes, if the executor or administrator has been appointed and given authority. Every Kansas probate court operates slightly differently, so timelines and permissions vary. We’ve worked with attorneys in Johnson and Wyandotte counties and can align with your legal team.

Do all heirs need to agree to sell the house?

Usually yes, especially if the will doesn’t name a specific directive for sale. If there’s disagreement, the court may need to intervene. We can help facilitate conversations and provide a fair market offer to help resolve disputes.

What if the house needs repairs or still has belongings inside?

That’s no problem. Riverfront buys homes in any condition, even during probate. You don’t need to clean, repair, or empty it out—we’ll take care of everything after closing.

Can out-of-state heirs sell a house in Missouri or Kansas?

Yes. You don’t need to be local to sell an inherited property. All documents can be signed electronically, and we can coordinate with your probate attorney to keep everything compliant and stress-free.

Do we need a real estate agent to sell during probate?

No. You can sell directly to Riverfront without listing, showings, or agent fees. This is often the preferred route for families who want privacy, speed, and a straightforward path through a difficult time.

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About the Author

Alex Mulsoff, co-founder of Riverfront Home Buyers, brings deep Kansas City roots and hands-on experience in demolition and construction. With over a decade working in Local 101 trades, Alex understands hard work and honesty. Now leading acquisitions, he helps homeowners navigate inherited or challenging property sales with care, clear guidance, and no pressure.

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Reviews:

Riverfront Home Buyers is a veteran-owned, family-run business in Kansas City and a BBB-accredited company with an A rating, trusted by local families across Missouri and Kansas. Click here to read more reviews.

“Alex was great with helping my mom on the sale of her current home. Contract was easy and straight forward. Very accommodating on working with her on moving schedule for new home.” - Missy Lucito

“Fantastic team and couldn’t recommend them enough. They not only make the buying process easy but are sincere and honest. I would highly recommend Alex and Stevie if your looking to sell or buy a property.” - Andrew Shipp