Selling an Inherited House in Pinellas County?
If you’ve recently inherited a property in Pinellas County, you may already know that probate is part of the process. But how long does probate actually take? And more importantly, can you sell the property while probate is still pending?
This guide breaks down the 2025 probate timeline in Pinellas County, the key steps involved, and your options if you want to sell the house quickly.
What Is Probate in Florida?
Probate is the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets — including real estate — to their heirs. In Florida, the court oversees this process to:
- Validate the will (if one exists)
- Appoint a Personal Representative (executor)
- Identify and notify heirs and creditors
- Distribute assets after debts are settled
The Typical Probate Timeline in Pinellas County (2025)
While every estate is unique, here’s what most families in Pinellas can expect:
- Simple Summary Administration (for estates under $75,000 or if the decedent has been deceased for more than 2 years)
→ Timeline: 1–3 months - Formal Administration (most common for inherited houses)
→ Timeline: 6–12 months - Complex Cases (disputes, multiple heirs, creditors, or contested wills)
→ Timeline: 12–18 months or more
Local Note: Pinellas County probate courts are busier than ever in 2025, especially with cases filed in downtown Clearwater and St. Pete. Expect longer wait times for hearings compared to smaller counties.
Can You Sell Before Probate Is Finished?
Yes! In many cases, you can. Here’s how:
- With Court Approval: The Personal Representative can petition the court to allow a sale.
- Cash Buyers: Investors (like Sell Now IQ) often purchase properties “subject to probate,” meaning the sale is lined up now and closed once the court grants approval.
- Heir Agreements: If all heirs agree to sell, the process typically proceeds more smoothly.
Why Heirs Choose to Sell During Probate
- Avoid carrying costs: Taxes, insurance, utilities, and repairs add up fast.
- Skip major repairs: Cash buyers purchase as-is, even with code violations or liens.
- Settle estates faster: Selling simplifies distribution among heirs.
Your Options as a Pinellas Heir
- List with an Agent – if the house is move-in ready and you’re willing to wait for months.
- Sell to a Cash Buyer – if you want a faster, hassle-free solution, even during probate.
- Do Nothing (for now) – but keep in mind, the longer probate drags on, the more carrying costs you’ll face.
Bottom Line
Probate in Pinellas County can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to wait a year to sell. If you’re ready to move on, there are legal ways to sell before probate is complete and we can walk you through every option.
Ready to Talk?
At Sell Now IQ, we help families in Pinellas County navigate probate and sell inherited properties without the stress.
👉 Message us for a free probate guide