Selling a House in Different Situations
Each situation below changes how a sale works in practical ways, so each has its own page: what is different, what it involves, and the questions to settle before choosing how to proceed.
These pages are general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules about probate, tenants, and foreclosure differ from state to state, and an attorney who practices where the property is located, or for foreclosure a HUD-approved housing counselor, is the right person for questions about your own case.
Houses That Need Work
Selling a house that needs work: how repairs, permits, insurance and disclosure rules affect a sale, and the questions to settle before choosing a route.
Inherited & Probate Property
Inherited a house? How probate, several heirs, clear title and carrying costs shape a sale, and the questions to settle before choosing how to proceed.
Behind on Payments
Behind on a mortgage? Who sets the process, where free or low-cost HUD-approved housing counseling fits, and what to ask a servicer and an attorney.
Rentals With Tenants In Place
Selling a rental with tenants still in place: how leases, notice rules and deposits work, and the local checks to make before anything is signed.
Vacant Property
Selling an empty property: how insurance limits, vacancy registration, utilities and upkeep work, and the checks to make while the house sits empty.
Relocating
Selling around a move: how closing dates, signing from a distance and a house left behind fit together, and the questions to settle before you leave.
Divorce
Selling a house you own with a spouse: what a decree, who holds title and a shared mortgage mean for a sale, and the questions to put to your attorney.