Losing a loved one is hard enough without the added stress of settling their estate. If you’ve inherited property in Oregon, you may need to go through probate, the legal process of transferring assets to heirs or beneficiaries. This guide explains how probate works in Oregon and what each step involves, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
1. What Is Probate?
Probate is a court-supervised process that:
- Verifies a will, if one exists
- Identifies and inventories the deceased person’s assets
- Pays valid debts and taxes
- Distributes remaining property to rightful heirs or beneficiaries
Not every estate requires probate. Small estates (generally under $275,000 in Oregon) may qualify for a simpler “small estate affidavit” process.
2. Starting the Probate Process
- File a Petition: A family member, heir, or named personal representative (executor) petitions the county probate court where the deceased person lived.
- Appoint a Personal Representative: The court appoints this person to manage the estate.
- Notify Heirs and Creditors: Oregon law requires formal notice so everyone with a legal interest can respond.
3. Taking Inventory and Managing the Estate
The personal representative must:
- Create an inventory of all assets (real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal property)
- Manage those assets responsibly (maintaining property, paying bills, etc.) until the estate is closed
4. Paying Debts and Taxes
Before any inheritance is distributed:
- Outstanding debts (like credit cards or medical bills) and taxes must be paid.
- The personal representative typically files a final income tax return for the deceased.
5. Distributing Assets and Closing the Estate
Once debts and taxes are settled:
- The remaining assets are distributed to heirs or beneficiaries as stated in the will or, if there is no will, according to Oregon’s intestate succession laws.
- The personal representative submits final paperwork to close the probate case.
6. How Rebuilder Solutions, LLC Can Help with Real Estate in Probate
Inherited property can present special challenges—especially if you need to sell quickly or the home needs repairs.
Our team can:
- Provide a free property evaluation
- Offer as-is cash purchases for homes in probate
- Work with your attorney or personal representative to ensure a smooth, legally compliant sale
Whether you want to keep, rent, or sell the property, we help you make informed decisions.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
If you’ve inherited property in Portland, Newberg, Sherwood, Dundee, McMinnville, Tigard, or Tualatin and are unsure where to begin:
📞 Contact Rebuilder Solutions, LLC at 503-862-3116 for a free, no-obligation property evaluation. Or, for more information, CLICK HERE
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Disclaimer: Rebuilder Solutions, LLC is not a law firm, financial advisor, or tax professional and does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. The information in this article is for informational purposes only. Homeowners should consult a qualified attorney, financial advisor, or housing counselor for guidance on their specific circumstances.