How We Help Families in Probate

Being executor of a loved one's estate can feel like a weight dragging you down to the darkest depths below. [Hermit Haus] can help, even if it's only to listen. Image by Bitmoji

This post originally appeared on the Hermit Haus Redevelopment website on 2016-07-12.

Probate is one of those areas where emotions run high, and it's very difficult to determine the right thing to do. Many psychologists recommend not making any significant financial decisions for a year after the death of a loved one. That's good advice if you are in a position to follow it.

But what if you're not?

First, I want to be clear that I fully understand wanting to protect your family against opportunists who want to take advantage of your grief. There are plenty of those people out there, and I firmly believe taking advantage of a grieving family is a sure way to total your karma.

If your family has the resources to wait a year before making a decision, that's probably the best thing to do. If we can help answer any questions about the process, we will do so with no expectations. I was the executor of my father's estate, and that is a burden I wouldn't wish on anyone. It keeps you picking at the wound for however long it takes to settle the estate. In my case that was two years before I could begin to let the scab form.

Remember: emotional stamina is a finite resource—often more finite than money.

But if your family doesn't want the house, can't afford to keep it, or doesn't have the resources to get top dollar when you sell it, we can help there, too. We'll make a cash offer for the current value of the house and close at your family's convenience. If you're not looking for a quick sale, we have other ways to help.

The last thing we want to do is intrude on the grief process. But if you know someone who needs help or just free advice, call us. We've been there.