A Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) is a real estate professional with advanced training in working with clients aged 50+. As an SRES, I understand the financial, emotional, and lifestyle challenges of downsizing, relocating, or planning for the future. My role is to provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance tailored to the unique needs of seniors and their families.

Probate is the legal process in California where the court oversees the distribution of a person’s estate after they pass away. It includes identifying assets, paying debts, and transferring property to heirs.

While not legally required, working with an experienced probate attorney is highly recommended in Southern California to ensure the process moves smoothly and complies with court requirements. I can connect you with trusted attorneys when needed.

The timeline varies. If the administrator has full authority, the sale can often close in about 30 days. With limited authority, court confirmation is required, which typically extends the process to 60–90 days.

A probate sale happens when the homeowner passes away without a trust in place, requiring the court to approve the sale. A traditional sale is handled directly by the property owner without court involvement.

Full authority gives the administrator the ability to sell the home much like a traditional transaction. Limited authority requires the sale to be confirmed by the probate court, sometimes involving an overbid process.

In court, buyers can compete by offering higher bids. The first overbid must be at least 5% plus $500 over the accepted offer, with subsequent bids at the judge’s discretion.

A conservatorship occurs when a judge appoints someone to manage the affairs of an adult who cannot handle them due to health or mental capacity. Property sales under a conservatorship must also go through the probate court.

A guardianship applies to minors when someone is appointed to manage their affairs, while a conservatorship applies to adults who need assistance with financial or personal matters.