- The executor usually needs the court's grant (probate) before selling, unless the home passed by joint ownership.
- Manitoba no longer charges probate fees, but legal steps still take time. Start with a lawyer.
- Tell the insurer if the home is empty. Vacant homes often need different coverage.
Selling a parent's home is a practical task wrapped in a lot of feeling. I've walked families through it, and the most helpful thing is a clear order of steps, at a pace that respects the family.
Step 1: who has authority to sell?
- If the home was owned jointly with right of survivorship (often a spouse), it usually passes directly to the surviving owner.
- Otherwise, the executor named in the will (or an administrator appointed by the court) handles the sale, usually after obtaining a grant of probate from the Court of King's Bench.
Manitoba eliminated probate fees in 2020, which helps, but the process still involves paperwork and time. Your lawyer can tell you how long to expect.
Step 2: protect the house
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Step 3: the contents
- Give family time to choose keepsakes, with a fair process if several people are involved.
- Have valuables appraised if needed.
- Use an estate sale company, donations and junk removal for the rest.
- Keep important papers: deeds, receipts, warranties, the survey.
Step 4: prepare and price
Estate homes are often sold "as is," priced to reflect condition. Light cleaning, clearing out and small safety repairs usually make a meaningful difference without a big investment. Disclose what the family knows; it's normal for an executor to have limited knowledge, and buyers understand that.
Step 5: taxes
A home that was the deceased's principal residence is generally sheltered from capital gains up to the date of death. Any change in value after that, while the estate holds it, can have tax consequences. The estate's accountant will advise. See capital gains when selling a home.
Who usually signs the sale of a home that passes under a will?
Handling a parent's home?
- Reply within 24 hours
- Everything in writing, in plain English or Polish
- Winnipeg and all of Manitoba
Questions people ask
Can we list before probate is granted?
Sometimes, with a clear condition in the contract, but the closing will depend on the grant. Ask the estate's lawyer first.
Do we need to fix everything?
No. Many estate homes sell as is. Safety issues and a good clean are usually the priority.
This article is general information for Manitoba, not legal, tax, mortgage or financial advice. Rules, rates and programs change; figures are estimates as of October 2026. Check your situation with a lawyer, lender or accountant before you act. Adela Strycharz is a REALTOR® with Real Broker Manitoba Ltd. If you already have an agreement with another brokerage, please speak with your own REALTOR® first.