Selling an Inherited Home on Long Island: What Are My Options?

What are my options when selling an inherited home on Long Island?
If you’ve inherited a home on Long Island, you can sell it as-is, make improvements before listing, rent it out, or transfer ownership. Each option comes with legal, tax, and emotional considerations. Eric Berman REALTOR helps guide Long Island families through every step of the process with clarity and care.

First Things First: Do You Have the Legal Authority to Sell?

Before doing anything, confirm whether you’re legally allowed to sell the inherited property. This depends on the estate status.

Key steps:

• Was there a will? If so, it must be probated.

• Were you named the executor or administrator? Only that person can legally sell the home.

• Is probate completed? If not, the sale may need to wait.

Eric Berman works closely with estate attorneys on Long Island to help sellers navigate probate and title clearance.

Option 1: Sell the Home As-Is

Many sellers choose to list the property in its current condition, especially if:

• The home needs extensive repairs

• You live out of town

• You want a quicker resolution

Selling as-is can simplify the process, but it may result in a lower sale price. Eric can advise if it’s the right move for your specific market and timeline.

Option 2: Make Strategic Improvements Before Selling

If the home is in good shape or needs only cosmetic work, making light improvements could significantly boost your return.

Improvements that often pay off on Long Island:

• Fresh paint and landscaping

• Basic kitchen or bathroom updates

• Cleaning out clutter and staging

Eric Berman REALTOR also offers Compass Concierge to help you make value-boosting updates with no upfront costs.

Option 3: Rent the Property

If you’re not ready to sell—or want to generate income—you could rent the home temporarily. This gives you time to:

• Wait for market conditions to improve

• Handle family decisions or emotional readiness

• Generate monthly income

Eric can connect you with local property managers and offer a rental analysis.

Option 4: Transfer or Buy Out Other Heirs

If you inherited the home with siblings or relatives, you may need to:

• Sell your share

• Buy out other parties

• Agree on listing terms and pricing

These discussions can be emotional and complicated. Eric Berman provides professional guidance and neutral market advice to help avoid family disputes.

What About Capital Gains and Inheritance Tax?

There’s no inheritance tax in New York, but you may face capital gains tax when selling.

Good news: You get a “stepped-up basis.”

This means the property’s tax value resets to its market value at the time of inheritance—not when the deceased originally purchased it.

This can significantly reduce your capital gains tax liability. Always speak with a licensed tax advisor for personalized advice.

What Eric Berman REALTOR Provides

Navigating the sale of an inherited home can feel overwhelming. Eric offers:

• A no-pressure consultation to review your options

• Referrals to estate attorneys, cleanout crews, and contractors

• Market analysis and pricing guidance

• Strategies for as-is or improved sales

• Help coordinating showings, staging, and closing logistics

His goal is to make the process easier—especially when emotions are high and logistics are complex.

Final Thoughts

Selling an inherited home on Long Island involves legal steps, family dynamics, and financial decisions. But you don’t have to do it alone.

Need help figuring out your next move?

Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today to schedule a consultation and get a clear plan for moving forward.

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Inherited a home on Long Island? Eric Berman REALTOR explains your options—from selling as-is to making updates or renting—and how to navigate probate.