Inheriting a Home: First 5 things you want to do when you inherit a home

Inheriting a Home?

Here Are the First Steps to Take

Inheriting a home can feel overwhelming. Along with the emotions of loss, you suddenly have a house, bills, and legal details to manage. The good news is: taking the right first steps can keep things smooth and stress-free. Here’s a practical guide to help you get started if you’ve just inherited a property in Pennsylvania.

1. Change the Locks and Secure the Property

It may sound simple, but it’s one of the first things you should consider doing. Even if you think you know who has keys, you may not be sure. Changing the locks gives peace of mind and protects the home until decisions are made.

2. Keep Insurance and Utilities Current

Never let insurance lapse. If something happens (fire, flood, storm damage), you don’t want to find out there’s no coverage. Call the insurance company right away to understand how to keep the policy moving forward. If the home will sit vacant, ask if you need a special “vacancy policy” since regular homeowner’s insurance may not apply.

Also, make sure utilities stay on. Keeping heat or air conditioning running, depending on the season, prevents moisture problems, frozen pipes, or damage that could quickly become costly.

3. Sit Down With Family and Set Expectations

Many challenges of inheriting a home don’t come from the house itself, but from family disagreements. Find out who the executor is, and have open conversations with siblings or other heirs early on. If the home will be sold, consider meeting at the property together to decide what happens with personal belongings. Sometimes hiring an estate sale professional can ease the process and keep emotions from running high.

4. Start the Probate Process

In Pennsylvania, most inherited homes go through probate. You’ll need a certified death certificate to begin the process with the county Register of Wills. Probate allows anyone with a legal interest in the property to come forward, and it ensures that ownership is officially transferred. If you’re unsure what to do, an estate attorney can help guide you through.

5. Cancel Unneeded Services

Go through the monthly bills and cancel anything unnecessary, like cable, subscriptions, or lawn services. This keeps the estate from paying for things that no one is using.

Moving Forward

Inheriting a home is both a responsibility and an opportunity. Whether you plan to live in it, rent it, or sell it, taking these steps early protects the property and gives your family clarity during a difficult time.

If you’re facing these decisions in Pennsylvania and aren’t sure where to start, our team is here to connect you with trusted probate attorneys, financial advisors, and estate professionals who can walk you through each step.