How to Find Unlisted Probate Houses in MA

Finding unlisted probate houses is simply a matter of record-checking.

When a person dies, all of his worldly property goes into probate, including homes and real estate. If you're interested in buying probate houses but want to find the unlisted ones to beat out the competition, then you're going to have to go the extra mile. Fortunately, the steps are fairly straightforward.

Instructions

1. Go to your local courthouse and ask to see the probate records. Probate records are public and easily accessed. Some courthouses have online records so you can check via the Internet from home, but if you show up in person you may find records that haven't yet been put into the database.

2. Ask the clerk to speak to the executor of the estate that interests you. The executor is the individual in charge of splitting up the estate fairly and equally, and in some cases will be the one who handles putting property up for sale. The executor's name should be listed on the probate records, and the court will be able to provide you with a way to contact the executor. If you speak to the executor you can inform her of the property you're interested in and leave your contact information so she can reach you if the house goes on the market.

3. Contact real estate agents in your local area. Many times executors of an estate will simply get in touch with a real estate agent when it comes time to sell a probate house. If you contact the real estate agents first and give them your contact information so they can inform you when probate houses come to their attention, you might be the first person after the agent to find out about the property.

References

• Buy and Sell House Fast: Probate Real Estate