How a Wholesaler Can Profit from Inherited Properties

For real estate wholesalers, inherited and probate properties are one of the most consistent sources of off-market deals. Understanding how inheritance works allows you to identify motivated sellers early, negotiate ethically, and close profitable wholesale transactions.

Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how inherited real estate works and how you can leverage it as a wholesaler.

Property Owner Passes Away

When a property owner dies, ownership is transferred in one of two ways:

• If there is a will, it specifies who inherits the property
• If there is no will, state intestate succession laws determine the legal heirs

In most cases, the property cannot be sold immediately and must go through probate.

Probate Process Begins (If Required)

Probate is the legal process used to validate the will and distribute the estate’s assets.

• The court appoints an executor (with a will) or an administrator (without a will)
• This person manages the estate, pays debts, and oversees the property
• Some states allow simplified probate for smaller estates

Property Ownership Transfers to Heirs

Once probate is completed or if probate is not required, ownership officially transfers to the heirs.

Many heirs prefer to sell quickly due to:

• Maintenance and repair costs
• Property taxes and insurance
• Vacant or distressed conditions
• Emotional stress or distance from the property

This creates strong opportunities for wholesalers.

Finding Inherited Property Leads

Common lead sources include:

• Probate court records from county offices
• Obituaries and death notices cross-checked with property records
• Networking with probate attorneys, estate planners, and real estate agents
• Direct mail and cold calling to heirs

Negotiating with Motivated Sellers

Heirs are often motivated but emotionally sensitive sellers.

Best practices include:

• Being empathetic and professional
• Offering fast, as-is solutions
• Emphasizing convenience and certainty
• Avoiding aggressive sales tactics

Trust and patience often close probate deals.

Assigning the Contract

Once heirs or executors have legal authority to sell:

• Put the property under contract at a discounted price
• Ensure the contract allows assignment
• Include inspection and title contingencies
• Assign the contract to a cash buyer such as a fix-and-flip investor or landlord

Common Challenges in Wholesaling Inherited Properties

Expect challenges such as:

• Multiple heirs disagreeing on the sale
• Probate timelines delaying closings
• Existing liens or mortgages
• Title complications

A reliable title company is critical.

Final Tips for Wholesalers

• Learn your state’s probate laws
• Build relationships, not pressure
• Maintain a strong buyer’s list
• Confirm legal authority before contracting
• Stay patient—probate deals often have higher margins

Need Real-Time Inheritance Data?

Finding quality inheritance leads doesn’t have to be difficult.

Sign up for our plan and get access to real-time inheritance and probate property data designed for wholesalers and real estate investors.

Close more off-market deals with confidence.