How To Buy Probate Real Estate in Los Angeles
Purchasing a home that is part of an estate going through probate in Los Angeles involves unique steps and legal considerations, especially if the sale requires court confirmation. This guide will outline the essential steps and provide insights to help you navigate the probate real estate buying process effectively.

Understanding Probate Real Estate
When a property owner passes away, their estate, including real estate, may go through probate—a court-supervised process for distributing assets. Here’s what you need to know:
Probate Requirement: Most properties not held in a trust or by an entity need to go through probate in California, regardless of whether there’s a will.
Role of the Personal Representative: The court may confirm an executor or appoint an administrator with full authority to manage the estate. In some cases, this administrator has limited authority, requiring court approval for major decisions, like selling real estate.
The Buying Process Explained
Initial Steps
- Court Confirmation: Understand that buying probate real estate may involve a court confirmation hearing, where overbidding may occur.
- Non-Contingent Offers: The seller may request you to make an offer that is not contingent on inspections, loans, or appraisals. The usual deposit in Los Angeles County is 10% of the purchase price. This amount may be wired to escrow or delivered to the seller’s representatives in the form of a cashier’s check.
Investigations Before Bidding
- Complete Due Diligence: Conduct all necessary inspections and reviews before making an offer. This is crucial as the seller may require you to submit a non-contingent offer, indicating you accept the property as-is.
Submitting an Offer
- Report of Sale: Once your offer is accepted, the personal representative will file a Report of Sale and Petition for Order Confirming Sale of Real Property.
- Court Hearing: The confirmation hearing in Los Angeles typically occurs about 30 days after filing the petition.

The Court Hearing and Overbidding
Understanding Overbidding: At the hearing, other buyers can submit competing offers. The initial overbid must be at least 5% plus $500 more than the accepted offer.
Participating in Overbidding: If you wish to do so, be prepared to increase your bid if you are the original offeror to secure the property.
Finalizing the Purchase: Once the sale is confirmed by the court, the closing process follows the standard contract timelines, adjusted for court and administrative procedures, usually completing within three to four weeks after the judge approves the sale.

Why Work With a Probate Specialist?
Navigating the probate sale and court confirmation process requires specific knowledge and experience. Working with a real estate agent familiar with these intricacies can provide you with the expertise needed to navigate these complexities confidently.
Common Questions Answered
Risk of Overbidding: Many potential buyers wonder about the likelihood of facing overbids at court. The reality is that if your initial offer is significantly below market value, expect competition. The probate code aims to protect the estate to ensure it is not undersold, safeguarding the interests of the beneficiaries.

Final Thoughts
Purchasing a probate property in Los Angeles is a detailed process that benefits significantly from having a knowledgeable and experienced realtor by your side. If you’re considering buying probate real estate, connect with Matias Baker Masucci to ensure a well-informed and guided experience.
Remember, this information is for educational purposes and not legal advice. For specific concerns or legal questions, always consult with a qualified attorney.
Contact
Thank you for taking the time to reach out.
You can also reach out directly via telephone or email.
Phone: (310) 776-5145
Email: info@ProbateRealtor.LA
Or use any of the following services to keep in touch!
Office Location
Strategically located on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, we serve all of Los Angeles County as well as parts of Ventura and Orange County. We are located at 131 S. Rodeo Dr. Ste. 100 Beverly Hills, CA 90212. Stop by anytime!