Going through the loss of a loved one is difficult, and dealing with probate and property decisions can make things feel even heavier. This simple guide explains what Catalina Foothills families need to know about probate, estate taxes, and inherited property—without the overwhelming legal language.
What Is Probate?
Probate is a court process that happens after someone passes away. It ensures:
- All property is identified
- Debts are paid
- Remaining assets go to the right people
If the person owned a home in their name only, probate is usually required—even in the Catalina Foothills area.
When Is Probate Required in Catalina Foothills?
Probate may be needed if:
- There’s no living trust
- The home or land is only under the person’s name
- The value of the estate is above Arizona’s small-estate limits
If real estate is involved, a local realtor like Ryan Comstock can help with the selling process and answer property-related questions.
Types of Probate in Arizona
Informal Probate
The easiest and most common type. Used when:
- There is a clear will
- Heirs agree
- The estate is simple
Formal Probate
Needed when:
- Families disagree
- The will is unclear
- The estate is complicated
Formal probate takes longer because the court is more involved.
Do Catalina Foothills Residents Pay Estate Taxes?
Here’s the simple answer:
✔ Arizona does not have a state estate tax.
✔ Most families will not owe federal estate tax.
Only very large estates are affected by federal estate taxes, so most Catalina Foothills residents will not need to worry about this.
Selling an Inherited Home in Catalina Foothills
If you inherit a home, you may decide to sell it. When selling inherited property, capital gains tax might apply. However, most people benefit from a “stepped-up basis,” which means:
- The home’s value resets to what it was worth at the time of the owner’s passing
- This often reduces or removes capital gains tax
A real estate expert like Ryan Comstock can guide you through these steps and help you determine the home’s market value.
How Long Does Probate Take in Catalina Foothills?
Most probate cases take 6–12 months, depending on:
- The size of the estate
- Whether anyone disagrees
- How quickly documents are filed
- Court timelines
Can You Sell a Home During Probate?
Yes, selling a home during probate is allowed in Arizona.
The personal representative (the person handling the estate) must:
- Inform all heirs
- Follow state probate rules
- Work with a realtor to price and market the home
Since probate sales have special requirements, working with a knowledgeable realtor helps avoid mistakes and delays.
Simple Tips for Catalina Foothills Families Going Through Probate
- Keep important papers organized
- Ask an estate attorney for legal help
- Work with a realtor for any property matters
- Be patient—probate takes time
Need Help With a Probate Property in Catalina Foothills?
If you’re dealing with probate and need support with selling or handling a home, Ryan Comstock is ready to help. He offers professional, friendly guidance to make the process easier.
📞 Phone: (520) 261-4669
📧 Email: ryancomstock@ryancomstock.com
🌐 Website: https://ryancomstock.com/