Inheriting a property can bring mixed emotions—grief, confusion, and uncertainty, especially if you’re not sure what to do next. If you’re asking, “How canI sell my inherited house in South Carolina?”, you’re not alone. Many people in the Palmetto State find themselves in similar situations every year. Whether you’ve inherited a home in Charleston, Columbia, or anywhere else in the state, this guide will walk you through the entire process in simple steps.
Understand Your Options After Inheriting a House
When you inherit a property, you generally have three options:
- Move into the house.
- Rent it out.
- Sell it.
While each option has its pros and cons, selling an inherited house is often the most practical choice—especially if you’re not planning to live in it or take on the responsibilities of a landlord.
Step 1: Determine Property Ownership
Before you make any moves, it’s important to find out who legally owns the property. If there are multiple heirs, everyone must agree on what to do with the house. This can lead to delays and complications. In South Carolina, the answer to the common question, “Do all heirs have to agree to sell property in South Carolina?”, is yes—unless one person has legal authority through a will or court process.
You might need to go through probate court to officially transfer the title to your name. Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate, and it’s required in most cases before the house can be sold.
Step 2: Assess the Home’s Condition
Inherited homes are often older and may need repairs or updates. One of the first things you should do is get a full home inspection to understand what you’re working with. If the property has a septic system, getting a checkup is also essential. Many buyers today want to see recent reports on the septic system inspection cost and any issues.
If you don’t have the time or money to make repairs, selling the home “as is” could be a good option.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Sell
There are multiple ways to sell an inherited house:
A. Traditional Sale Through a Real Estate Agent
You can list the home on the market with an agent. This can take weeks or even months but may yield a higher price.
B. Selling As-Is for Cash
If the home needs work and you want to sell fast, working with a cash home buyer is a smart move. Many people choose this option because why are cash offers better in South Carolina? The main reason is they close faster and don’t require repairs or inspections. Plus, cash offers typically don’t fall through like mortgage deals often do.
C. FSBO (For Sale by Owner)
You can sell the property yourself without an agent. This saves money on commission but can be time-consuming and tricky if you’re unfamiliar with real estate rules.
Step 4: Understand the Tax Implications
Taxes can be confusing, especially when selling inherited property. Fortunately, South Carolina doesn’t have a state inheritance tax, but you still need to be aware of capital gains tax on real estate in South Carolina.
Capital gains are calculated by comparing the selling price to the “stepped-up” value of the home at the time of the original owner’s death. If the property appreciated a lot, you might owe taxes on the profit. It’s always best to speak with a tax professional before the sale.
Step 5: Prepare the Home for Sale
Even if you’re selling the house “as-is,” some light cleanup can go a long way. Clear out personal belongings, mow the lawn, and clean windows. If the property is going on the market, staging the home can help it sell faster.
Don’t forget about legal paperwork—make sure the deed is clear, all heirs have signed off, and any outstanding debts or liens are resolved.
Step 6: Price the Home Right
Pricing the home correctly is crucial. If you set the price too high, it may sit on the market. Too low, and you’ll lose out on profit. Ask a local real estate agent for a comparative market analysis (CMA) or check recent sales in your neighborhood.
Timing also matters. The best time to sell a home in South Carolina is usually in the spring or early summer when buyers are most active.
Step 7: Close the Deal
Once you find a buyer and agree on a price, the final steps include:
- Signing a purchase agreement
- Completing the title transfer
- Paying off any remaining taxes or mortgage (if applicable)
A local closing attorney or title company will usually handle the paperwork for you.
Should You Sell to a Cash Buyer?
If you want to avoid the hassle, stress, and delays of a traditional sale, consider contacting a company that specializes in buying inherited homes. At RedHead Home Properties, we help people sell inherited house Columbia SC and throughout the state with fast, fair offers—no repairs, no agent fees, and no headaches.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to sell my inherited house in South Carolina is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right guidance and support, you can turn your inherited property into a valuable opportunity. Whether you need to sell quickly, want to avoid repairs, or are simply ready to move on, there’s a solution that fits your needs.
And remember, if you’re dealing with a home in Columbia or anywhere else in South Carolina, RedHead Home Properties is here to help every step of the way.
