What to Do With an Inherited Property You Don't Want

Published on June 2, 2026

Inheriting a house from a loved one can be a mixed blessing. While it's a generous gift, it often comes with a host of unexpected responsibilities, expenses, and emotional stress—especially if the property is located in another city or state, or if it needs significant repairs.

The Hidden Costs of Inherited Property

Even if the house is paid off, you're still on the hook for property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance. If the house sits empty, it can quickly deteriorate or become a target for vandalism. These holding costs can drain your finances while you figure out what to do.

Navigating Probate

Before you can sell an inherited house, it usually has to go through probate—the legal process of validating the deceased person's will and distributing their assets. This can take months or even years. It's crucial to consult with a probate attorney to understand the specific laws in Nebraska and ensure you have the legal right to sell the property.

Options for Selling

Once you have the legal authority to sell, you have a few options:

• List it traditionally: This requires cleaning out the house (which can be emotionally exhausting), making repairs, and waiting for a buyer.
• Rent it out: You could become a landlord, but this comes with its own set of headaches, from finding reliable tenants to dealing with midnight maintenance emergencies.
• Sell it as-is for cash: This is often the easiest and least stressful option. At Husker Homes, we buy inherited properties in exactly the condition they are in. You don't even have to clean out the belongings you don't want. We handle everything, allowing you to close quickly and move on.