Estate Sales - Quebec
Note: These are tips and observations from helping families through the process over the years. The first official step should always be to check with a notary. Working with a trusted notary is very important. There are different paths you will need to take depending on the type of will that was left, and if the estate is solvent or not. They will guide you through the appropriate steps and will prepare the correct documents for you to sign (i.e. Declaration of transmission or renunciation).
Once you’ve dealt with the legalities of the estate:
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is already a very emotional time. Add in the responsibility of selling a loved one’s property, and the situation can become physically exhausting as well. Luckily, there are many services to help you through this process. Here is a list of resources that you may consider using to help with the often overwhelming burden of preparing a loved one’s home for sale:
Real estate broker: A meeting with an experienced and patient real estate broker can help you determine your first or next steps to prepare the home for sale. Preparation is key to maximizing the value of an estate sale. They will also help to establish a fair market value which is essential to know.
Decluttering service: Oftentimes a home is filled with many mementos and cherished items. You may wish to enlist the help of a professional organizer to help you sort through the items.
Estate sale representative: These specialists can help you appraise any valuable items and can arrange to host an estate sale for you if needed.
Home Inspector: Having a pre-list inspection can save you money in the long run. It will help you to identify any issues with the property and will allow you to deal with them before putting the property on the market. Buyers may still want to do their own inspection, but if you’ve already declared any issues, and priced accordingly, the buyers will have less chance to negotiate downwards after you’ve already agreed on a price.
Handy-man & other trades: A handy-man can help you to fix up the property prior to selling and a fresh coat of paint can go a long way.
Cleaning service: A dirty house can bring the property value way down. Once the house is ready to list, give it one good clean.
Are you dealing with the sale of a loved one's home? Need referrals for any services? Please reach out, I'd be honoured to assist you through this difficult process. (kristinlandry@royallepage.ca)