A Commitment to Clarity & Support Throughout Your Probate Process

The combined complexities of your duties as an estate executor and the emotional toll of losing a loved one can often feel overwhelming. Managing the details of probate while grieving is not an easy task, and mistakes can occur when critical steps are overlooked.

I’m Frank McCue, a Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES), and I am committed to helping you navigate this difficult time with clarity and support. My goal is to provide you with a clear picture of your options so you feel confident in making the best decisions every step of the way.

From Start to Finish, I’m Here to Help

Probate can be a challenging responsibility, but you don’t have to face it alone. I offer consistent communication, compassionate guidance, and access to trusted professionals to reduce your overall workload.

When you need help with property held in probate, I take care of scheduling and managing the best service providers in the industry. These professionals aren’t just skilled at their craft—they’re empathetic individuals who understand the unique challenges you’re facing.

A Proven, Compassionate Approach

Having worked with many executors, I understand the intricate responsibilities of managing an estate for a loved one or friend who has passed away. My role is to guide you through the real estate process, ensuring every phase is handled with professionalism, care, and precision.

Whether it’s filing the initial probate paperwork or closing the sale of a property, I work to minimize stress and effort for you. My CPRES training means I’m equipped to assist with every aspect of the real estate transaction, from market analysis to negotiations.

Why Choose a Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist?

As a CPRES agent, I’ve received specialized training to handle the complexities of probate real estate. This includes:

• Understanding state-specific probate rules.
• Managing court-confirmation sales.
• Handling real estate under living trusts or conservatorships.

I provide tailored guidance on selling property in probate, ensuring legal requirements are met and your family’s interests are protected.

Your Trusted Partner for Probate

I don’t just assist with real estate transactions—I also connect you with a network of trusted professionals to make the probate process smoother:

• Probate Attorneys: Legal experts to handle estate matters and ensure debts and assets are managed appropriately.
• Accountants & Tax Attorneys: Professionals to assist with estate taxes, retirement accounts, and investments.
• Appraisers & Estate Liquidators: Specialists to evaluate and manage personal and real estate property.
• Property Care Experts: From handymen and landscapers to trash removal services, I coordinate everything needed to prepare a property for sale.

Working Closely with Your Attorney

Your probate attorney and real estate specialist are critical resources during this process. I personally review all purchase offers with your attorney to ensure we’re aligned and that you’re fully protected at every stage of the transaction. This additional step is just one of the ways I go above and beyond to serve my clients.

Clarity in a Time of Uncertainty

Between the complexities of probate and the emotions of your loss, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. My approach prioritizes clarity, education, and compassionate guidance so you can confidently move forward.

Want to learn more? Download my free eBook: 7 BIG Mistakes Most Executors Make While Going Through Probate. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll learn what to avoid and how to streamline the process.

Probate Terminology You Should Know

• Beneficiary: Someone named in a will to inherit assets.
• Heir: A family member who inherits assets when there is no will.
• Executor (or Executrix): The person designated to administer the estate.
• Probate: The legal process of settling an estate.
• Intestate: When someone dies without a will, leaving the estate to be managed by the probate court.

Let’s Navigate Probate Together

As your CPRES agent, I’m here to lead, guide, and protect you during this process. My expertise and network of professionals allow me to provide you with a seamless experience that reduces stress and ensures every detail is handled with care.

Contact me today to learn how I can help you:

📞 (831) 464-0400
📧 Realtor@FrankMcCue.com
🌐 www.betterraterealty.com

Frank McCue, ABR, CPRES, CRS, GRI
DRE# 01119149
Better Rate, Better Service, Better Results!
Better Rate Realty

Probate Terminology

Navigating probate can be challenging, especially with all the legal terms involved. We’re here to simplify the process by helping you understand essential probate terminology.

Beneficiary

A person named in a will who is set to inherit something from the estate. Beneficiaries are specified in the will and receive assets accordingly.

Codicil

A legal supplement or amendment to an existing will. A codicil modifies, adds, or removes provisions without rewriting the entire will.

Conservator

An individual appointed by the court to manage the affairs of a person who is unable to make decisions for themselves due to incapacity or incompetence.

Heir

A family member who inherits property when there is no named beneficiary in the will. Heirs can include spouses, children, parents, or extended family members related by blood or marriage.

Intestate

A term used when someone dies without a valid will. In these cases, the probate court distributes the estate’s assets according to state law.

Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship

A form of property ownership where co-owners automatically inherit the share of a deceased co-owner. This ensures the property passes directly to the surviving co-owner(s).

Personal Representative (Executor or Executrix)

The person designated in a will to administer the estate, handle asset distribution, and ensure the decedent’s wishes are fulfilled. This role is crucial in managing probate efficiently.

Probate

The legal process of validating a will, settling debts, and distributing the estate’s assets. The probate court oversees this entire process to ensure legal compliance.

Probate Court

A specialized state court that handles matters related to wills, estates, and conservatorships. This court oversees the probate process to ensure everything is executed properly.

Tenancy in Common

A type of property ownership where each co-owner holds a distinct share that can be transferred or inherited independently.

Testate

Refers to someone who dies leaving a valid will, which outlines how their assets should be distributed.

⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE:
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not guarantee accuracy. Always discuss probate matters with an attorney or a qualified Real Estate Professional to ensure you are making informed decisions.

FAQ: General Probate Questions

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process through which an estate is settled. This involves validating a will, paying off debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries or heirs. The process is overseen by the probate court.

How does the probate process work?

1. File a petition to open probate with the court.
2. Validate the will (if applicable).
3. Appoint a personal representative (executor or executrix).
4. Inventory the estate’s assets.
5. Pay debts, taxes, and expenses.
6. Distribute the remaining assets to beneficiaries or heirs.
7. Close the probate case.

How long does probate usually take to complete?

On average, probate can take between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the estate and any disputes that arise.

How is the probate process started?

The process begins when a petition is filed with the probate court. This petition requests the court to open the estate and appoint a personal representative.

Why is probate required?

Probate ensures that a deceased person’s debts are paid, and assets are distributed legally and according to the will (if there is one) or state law (if there isn’t).

How much does probate cost?

Costs vary depending on the size of the estate, attorney fees, court fees, and other related expenses. Typically, probate costs range from 3% to 7% of the estate’s total value.

If the estate is very small, is probate still required?

In some cases, small estates may qualify for simplified probate or even bypass probate, depending on state law. Consulting a probate professional can help you determine if this applies.

What happens during probate of an uncontested will?

When a will is uncontested, the process is usually straightforward. The court validates the will, and the personal representative manages the distribution of assets and payment of debts without disputes.

Where is probate handled?

Probate is managed in the probate court located in the county where the deceased person lived or owned property.

Do I need a probate lawyer?

While not always required, a probate lawyer can help navigate the process, especially if the estate is complex or contested. Having expert guidance often makes probate smoother and less stressful.

⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE:
This information is provided for general educational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney or Real Estate Professional for specific probate guidance.

Your Trusted Guide in Probate

With Your Probate Relief, you don’t have to face probate challenges alone. Let’s work together to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

📞 Call us at (831) 464-0400
🔗 Visit yourprobaterelief.com for more resources and support.