How long does probate take in Hillsborough County?

Summary administration (estates under $75,000 or where the decedent died more than 2 years ago) typically takes 1 to 3 months. Formal administration takes 6 to 12 months depending on complexity, creditor claims, and heir disputes.

Can you sell a house before probate is complete in Florida?

The personal representative can petition the court for authority to sell real property during probate. This is common and often approved, but requires court authorization and proper notice to all interested parties.

Who pays the costs of a probate property sale?

Sale costs are paid from the estate, not the personal representative's pocket. This includes closing costs, attorney fees, and any outstanding liens or debts against the property.

How to Sell a Probate Property in Hillsborough County

When a homeowner passes away in Hillsborough County and their property must go through probate, the personal representative (executor) faces a specific set of legal requirements before the home can be sold. Understanding this process saves time, money, and stress.

What Is Probate and Why Does It Matter for Property Sales?

Probate is the court-supervised process of settling a deceased person's estate. For real property, probate establishes who has legal authority to sell the home and ensures all debts and claims are properly handled.

In Hillsborough County, probate cases are handled by the 13th Judicial Circuit Probate Division at the George E. Edgecomb Courthouse in downtown Tampa.

What Are the Types of Probate in Florida?

Florida offers two main probate paths:

Summary administration: For estates valued under $75,000 (excluding exempt property) or when the decedent died more than 2 years ago. Faster and simpler — typically 1 to 3 months.
Formal administration: Required for larger estates. Involves appointing a personal representative, notifying creditors, inventorying assets, and distributing property. Takes 6 to 12 months.

Can the Personal Representative Sell the Property During Probate?

Yes. Florida Statute 733.613 gives the personal representative authority to sell estate property, subject to court approval in some circumstances. The process:

File a petition with the probate court for authority to sell
Provide notice to all beneficiaries and interested parties
Obtain court approval (often a formality if no one objects)
Proceed with the sale through a title company

Need to Sell a Probate Property?

Barrett Henry has extensive experience with probate property sales in Hillsborough County. Call (813) 733-7907 for a free consultation.

Why Are Cash Offers Ideal for Probate Properties?

Probate properties often benefit from cash sales because:

The home is typically vacant and may have deferred maintenance
Heirs want to settle the estate quickly and divide proceeds
Traditional buyers may be hesitant to purchase a probate property
Cash closes in 7 to 14 days once title is clear — no lender delays
The property can be sold as-is without repairs

What Costs Come Out of a Probate Sale?

The estate pays all costs associated with the sale:

Attorney fees (typically 3% of estate value under Florida Statute 733.6171)
Personal representative fees (same schedule as attorney fees)
Outstanding property taxes and liens
Title insurance and closing costs
Court filing fees

Barrett Henry, REALTOR® & Broker Associate at REMAX Collective, has 23+ years of real estate experience helping families navigate probate sales and inherited property transactions across Tampa Bay.

Get your free cash offer on a probate property today.