Oro Valley’s beautiful desert views and quiet, upscale neighborhoods make it a popular destination for vacationers—and a great place to own a short-term rental. But what happens if the owner of an Airbnb or vacation rental in Oro Valley passes away? If you’re responsible for managing their estate, it’s important to understand how probate affects short-term rental properties.
Probate in Arizona: What It Means for Real Estate
Probate is the court-supervised process for settling a deceased person’s estate. This includes gathering assets, paying debts, and distributing property to heirs. Until the court appoints a personal representative (executor), no one is legally allowed to manage, sell, or rent out the property—even if it’s an actively booked Airbnb.
Can the Rental Continue Operating During Probate?
Possibly—but it depends on the setup. If a property management company was handling the short-term rental, they may be able to continue operations with limited interruption. If the deceased was self-managing the Airbnb, operations may be paused until someone is legally appointed to take over.
What to Know About Short-Term Rentals in Oro Valley During Probate
- Court Appointment is Required
A personal representative must be appointed by the probate court before any decisions about the rental can be made. - Managing Bookings and Guests
Without legal authority, future reservations may need to be canceled or postponed. It’s important to act quickly to preserve the property’s reputation and income potential. - Rental Income During Probate
Any money earned by the property during probate becomes part of the estate. This income can be used to pay property-related expenses like insurance, maintenance, and taxes. - Oro Valley Short-Term Rental Regulations
Oro Valley may have specific rules or licensing requirements for short-term rentals. These must be followed even during probate to avoid fines or disruption of operations. - Should the Property Be Sold or Kept?
Once the probate process is underway, the personal representative and heirs must decide whether to:- Continue operating the property as a short-term rental
- Transition it to a long-term lease
- Sell the property
Work with a Realtor Who Knows Probate and Oro Valley
Navigating probate can be overwhelming, especially when a valuable rental property is involved. You need an experienced local Realtor who understands both the legal and market dynamics of Oro Valley.
That’s where Ryan Comstock comes in. With deep knowledge of probate real estate and the Oro Valley market, Ryan can help you make smart, informed decisions—whether you’re keeping the rental or preparing it for sale.
📞 Contact Ryan Comstock Today
Phone: (520) 261-4669
Website: www.ryancomstock.com
From managing inherited properties to maximizing their value, Ryan is here to guide you through every step of the process.