After 33 years in real estate, I’ve helped many Utah families sell a parent’s home — after a death, during a move to assisted living, or when adult children suddenly need to step in and make decisions quickly.
It’s never just about the property.
It’s about understanding options, timing, and avoiding costly missteps during an emotional season.
Here’s what experience has taught me.
Compassion Comes First When Selling a Parent’s Home
Families are often grieving, overwhelmed, or trying to coordinate decisions across siblings who may live in different cities or states. This is not the time for pressure or rushed decisions.
A steady, patient approach — paired with clear information — helps families move forward confidently.
Understanding Mortgages and Reverse Mortgages Changes Everything
One of the biggest surprises for families is realizing they have more flexibility than they think.
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If there is a traditional mortgage, families may not need to continue making payments while preparing the home for sale.
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If there is a reverse mortgage, the home can be sold — and in many cases, there is still equity.
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Families are often relieved to learn they have time to sell thoughtfully, not under panic or pressure.
This is why starting the conversation with me early matters. When I’m involved from the beginning, I can act as aconcierge — helping families move forward with a clear plan instead of fumbling through the process piece by piece.
“understanding your options early”
Timing Matters — and Waiting Too Long Can Cost You
One of the most common mistakes families make is waiting too long to get help.
In one situation, a family and I first started talking in the spring. They officially hired me in July. Even then, it took untilOctober to have the home fully ready to go on the market.
Once listed, I secured two offers within 30 days, and we closed in mid-December.
Had I not stepped in when I did, the family told me it likely would have taken another full year of hosting garage sales a few times a month to clear the home themselves.
Early guidance mattered more than they realized.
Estate Sales and Preparation Take Longer Than Families Expect
Families often underestimate how much time, energy, and emotional weight it takes to prepare a home for sale.
What they also don’t realize is this:
With the right plan, families often save money — and a tremendous amount of stress.
“estate sale preparation and coordination”
Why Experience and SRES Certification Matter
There is a clear difference between an average licensed agent and one who specializes in senior transitions and estate sales.
Yes, many agents can sell a house.
But an SRES-certified agent with extensive estate experience brings:
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Knowledge of traditional and reverse mortgages
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Understanding of title, timing, and tax implications
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Trusted relationships with estate sale and cleanout professionals
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Realistic timelines and market strategy
There is simply no comparison.
Final Thought
Selling a parent’s home in Utah is both an emotional responsibility and a financial decision. The key is not just starting the conversation early — it’s starting it with the right guidance.
My role is to be a knowledge broker — helping families understand their options, protect their equity, and move forward efficiently and thoughtfully.
The best outcomes happen when we get moving early and intentionally.