Being named an executor might feel like an honor, a final sign of trust from someone you loved. Then the practical side kicks in.

An estate is not just paperwork. It is real property to secure, deadlines that don’t pause for grief, creditors to notify, and a probate process that expects tidy records. Many people meet this role at the worst possible time, which is why a simple plan can make a heavy job manageable.

Below is a step-by-step guide with extra focus on property tasks, since the home often drives both the timeline and the stress level.

What Does an Estate Executor Actually Do?

Understanding core responsibilities is essential before delegating tasks as an executor, who carries out the will, protects assets, and settles affairs under probate rules. Key responsibilities include:

• Opening probate and obtaining authority (letters testamentary).
• Notifying heirs and creditors, while monitoring incoming bills.
• Safeguarding assets, especially the home.
• Paying valid debts and taxes in the correct order.
• Distributing remaining assets and filing a final accounting.

Even small estates can take months, especially those with significant property, so managing the house early is crucial.

Property Responsibilities in the First 30 Days

The property is often the most valuable and time-sensitive asset. A quick, organized start prevents most headaches.

Begin with these priorities:

• Secure the property. Change exterior locks, collect spare keys, limit access, and forward mail.
• Stabilize utilities. Keep heat, water, and power at safe levels to prevent damage.
• Update insurance. Call the carrier to disclose the death and vacancy, and ask about a vacant-home endorsement so coverage remains valid.
• Document condition. Take date-stamped photos and a brief video walk-through, room by room.
• Inventory contents. Log valuables, locate deeds and titles, and note any safe-deposit boxes.
• Address immediate risks. Empty perishables, secure medications and firearms, winterize if needed, and set lawn or snow service.
• Confirm occupancy. Identify tenants or roommates, collect leases, and communicate next steps in writing.
• Check HOA or co-op rules. Note dues, assessments, rental restrictions, and sale procedures.

In these 30 days, there’s a possibility that you might realise that the workload is more than you can manage, so What to Do If You Don’t Want to Be an Executor anymore? Many executors discover the time demand only after seeing the property checklist. If you have already said yes but now understand that continuing would strain your schedule or your family, notify the court properly, and keep the home protected while a successor steps in. That path prevents delays, preserves insurance coverage, and keeps utilities and security in place during the handoff.

Valuations, Title, and Paperwork You Should Not Skip

Good records protect you, the heirs, and the sale later on. Think of this as your property file.

Build it with the following:

• Date-of-death valuation. Order a licensed appraisal or credible market analysis to support taxes and fair dealing.
• Title search. Identify mortgages, liens, judgments, or easements before you list.
• Ownership form. Confirm whether the home was solely owned, joint, community, or in a trust, since that affects authority and process.
• Property taxes. Check the status and anticipate that exemptions may change after death.
• Carrying costs. List monthly expenses such as mortgage, insurance, utilities, HOA, lawn or pool care, security, and storage.

If you need a quick gut check on appraisals, title issues, or sale paperwork, a seasoned probate attorney such as Anthony S. Park can review your plan so you avoid preventable detours.

Sell, Rent, or Hold? A Simple Decision Framework

The right choice depends on instructions in the will, estate costs, local market conditions, and family goals. A short framework keeps everyone focused.

Use these four filters:

1. The will. Does it require a sale or leave the home to someone specific? Follow that first.
2. Carrying costs versus time. Can the estate afford months of expenses while you list or renovate?
3. Marketability. What is the realistic sale window given the condition, season, and demand?
4. Family goals. Do heirs want to keep the home, or is cash more practical and fair?

If you choose to rent, confirm the landlord’s rules, insurance for rentals, and who will manage tenants and repairs. If you choose to sell, move to the next section.

Mortgages, Taxes, Insurance, and HOA: Stay Compliant

Carrying costs and compliance details can derail a sale if they are overlooked. A simple calendar keeps you ahead of deadlines.

Track these items:

• Mortgage servicer. Notify the lender, keep payments current, and clarify any due-on-sale issues.
• Property taxes. Record due dates and penalties, and check how exemptions will change.
• Insurance. Maintain coverage that is appropriate for a vacant or listed home.
• HOA or co-op fees. Pay assessments on time to avoid liens and showing restrictions.
• Municipal rules. Some cities require point-of-sale inspections, smoke or CO certificates, or permits for dumpsters and cleanouts.

A single missed bill can delay closing, reduce net proceeds, or trigger extra inspections.

Wrap-Up

Serving as an executor is both a privilege and a serious responsibility. Real estate tends to set the pace, which is why securing the property, maintaining insurance and utilities, and organizing documents should come first. If the role fits your time and skills, a simple system and professional help at key moments will carry the estate through probate with fewer surprises. If it does not fit, you can step back respectfully, keep the home protected, and let a successor continue the process without losing momentum.