How fast can I sell my house in Des Moines?

With the right pricing strategy and marketing, homes in Des Moines typically sell within 30-60 days. Sarah Ingles uses data-driven pricing and professional marketing to help homes sell quickly.

What is an SRES designation?

SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) is a designation for REALTORS who specialize in helping seniors with real estate transactions, including downsizing, relocating to senior living, and estate sales.

What are the best suburbs near Des Moines?

The top suburbs near Des Moines include Ankeny, Grimes, Waukee, Johnston, West Des Moines, and Urbandale. Each offers excellent schools, amenities, and community features.

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Probate Real Estate Agent Polk County IA | Estate Property Sales

Probate Real Estate Agent in Polk County, Iowa

Navigate Iowa probate with confidence. SRES® certified agent specializing in estate property sales in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee & Grimes.

📞 (563) 513-8771 Schedule Free Consultation

Free Probate Consultation

Why You Need a Probate Specialist

Estate property sales have unique challenges that require specialized expertise

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Legal Authority Requirements

Only certain parties can legally list and sell estate property. I ensure proper documentation is in place before marketing begins.

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Multiple Decision Makers

Heirs often live in different states with different opinions. I serve as a neutral third party to facilitate consensus.

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Court Coordination

Some sales require court approval. I understand the Polk County process and timeline expectations (typically 3-6 months).

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Property Condition Challenges

Estate homes often have deferred maintenance. I have strategies for selling in any condition—repairs, credits, or as-is.

Our Probate Services

Comprehensive support for executors and administrators

✓ Court coordination & documentation support

✓ Property valuation for estate settlement

✓ Cleanout & repair coordination

✓ Marketing to probate attorneys & investors

✓ Out-of-state executor management

✓ Heir communication & transparency

✓ Estate sale company referrals

✓ Insurance risk assessment before listing

The Polk County Probate Process

Step-by-step guide to selling estate property in Iowa

File with Polk County District Court

The will is filed and validated. The court appoints an executor or administrator.

Obtain Letters Testamentary

This document gives the executor legal authority to act on behalf of the estate, including selling real property.

Secure & Insure Property

Change locks, maintain utilities, and obtain estate insurance. I can help identify insurability issues.

Property Appraisal & Valuation

Get a professional appraisal and Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) for pricing strategy.

Marketing & Sale

List the property, manage showings, negotiate offers, and coordinate with all heirs.

Court Approval & Closing

Obtain any required court approval, close the sale, and distribute proceeds per the estate plan.

Common Probate Challenges & Our Solutions

How we handle the tough situations

😤 Multiple heirs disagree on price

Our Solution

I provide objective market data (CMA) as a neutral third party. Facts resolve disputes faster than opinions.

🔧 Property needs major repairs

Our Solution

Vetted contractor network for quick fixes, or strategic as-is pricing to attract cash buyers and investors.

✈️ Executor lives out of state

Our Solution

Remote management with video walkthroughs, digital signatures, and regular update calls. I'm your boots on the ground.

Why My Insurance Background Matters

As a former insurance professional with 10+ years experience, I identify insurability issues that can delay probate sales—roof age, electrical systems, plumbing problems—before they become obstacles. This protects the estate from surprises and keeps your timeline on track.

Probate FAQs

Answers to common executor questions

How long does probate take in Polk County?

Typical probate in Polk County takes 6-12 months from filing to closing. Simple estates with no disputes may close in 4-6 months. Complex estates with multiple heirs, creditor claims, or property issues can take 12-18 months. The property can often be listed and sold before probate fully closes with court approval.

Can I sell the house before probate closes?

Yes, in most cases. Once the executor receives Letters Testamentary from the Polk County District Court, they have authority to list and sell real property. The sale proceeds are held in the estate account until final distribution. Court approval may be required before closing in some situations.

Who pays for repairs on a probate property?

The estate typically pays for necessary repairs from estate funds. Executors can also negotiate repair credits with buyers instead of making repairs, or sell as-is to cash buyers. I help executors weigh the ROI of repairs vs. price adjustments for each situation.

What if heirs disagree on the sale price?

As a neutral third party, I provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) based on actual market data. This objective valuation helps resolve disagreements. If heirs still can't agree, the executor has final authority per the will, or the court can intervene in contested cases.

What Executors Say

Real experiences from families we've helped

"Living in Colorado, I had no idea how to handle my father's house in Ankeny. Sarah managed everything—cleanout, repairs, showings—and kept me updated every step of the way. Sold in 45 days."

Michael R.

Out-of-State Executor, Ankeny Estate

"My siblings and I couldn't agree on anything. Sarah provided the market data that finally got us all on the same page. Professional and patient through a difficult time."

Jennifer T.

Co-Executor, West Des Moines Estate

"The house needed so much work we thought no one would buy it. Sarah connected us with a cash buyer who closed in 3 weeks. She made the impossible feel easy."

David & Susan M.

Heirs, Des Moines Estate