La Puente, CA · Member since 2016 · 102 posts · 21 votes
Property in Los Angeles County is free and clear of a mortgage but delinquent on property tax this year. Property may be subject to probate as father passed away but children are slobs and house is falling apart due to deferred maintenance. Tax basis is 1960 and under prop 13, so I assume it's $800 a year behind.
It's my understanding the step mother widow has been willed the property, hates the kids living in the house and may sell the house after probate. When, if, or how should I get involved?
Real Estate Agent · Sacramento/Placer ~ San Francisco Bay Area counties · Member since 2012 · 1k+ posts · 743 votes
6y
When the step-mother has been approved by the court to represent the estate. She'll be named the PR (Personal Representative)
The decedents children she doesn't get along with, will legally have an interest in the property.
Re-check the probate file to confirm she has named PR then send a letter. If Duties and Liabilities has been filed her phone number and maybe e-mail address will be provided as well, give her a call..
La Puente, CA · Member since 2016 · 102 posts · 21 votes
6y
@Mark Pedroza I have access to the mothers contact information as well. When or how should I approach the delinquent amount with the Los Angeles County tax collector?
Real Estate Agent · Sacramento/Placer ~ San Francisco Bay Area counties · Member since 2012 · 1k+ posts · 743 votes
6y
When the PR is ready to sell, proceeds to pay back taxes will come from the decedents estate. If you pay back taxes on your own, you'll be doing the estate a favor and no, you will not automatically receive the property.
Broker · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2015 · 151 posts · 55 votes
6y
I'd advise not dealing with the tax issue head on, but just add it as an additional cost that seller will incur thus lowering their net. You have to work that into your numbers, and also bring it up with the PR that its an additional closing cost that will have to happen. It will be handled when you get to the closing table by title, before they'll transfer clear title.