1. The Weight of an Unexpected Inheritance
Losing a loved one is extremely difficult. Then comes the unexpected: inheriting a house you may not want, need, or be able to afford. Many families unfortunately face this massive family issue every year. It’s not just about keeping up with the mortgage or property taxes. There’s also insurance, utilities, and maintenance on a place that might not fit your life.
2. The Hidden Costs of Holding On
At first, keeping the home can feel like the “safe” choice. But costs creep in fast. Property taxes in Allegheny County alone can run thousands of dollars per year. Add in utilities for an empty home, liability insurance, and many unexpected repairs like an old furnace or a leaking roof, and you’re staring at real money going out the door. Many heirs discover within a few months that it’s draining their savings rather than adding to them.
3. The Emotional and Legal Maze
An inherited home often comes full of belongings collected over decades. Sorting through furniture, papers, and keepsakes can take weeks or months. Then there’s the legal side: probate court, clearing titles, and making sure all heirs agree on next steps. Disagreements among siblings or extended family can stall progress and add more stress. What started as a symbol of family history can quickly become a source of family tension.
4. A Couple Options
If you’re not going to live in the property, you have a couple paths forward. Rent it out -- Which can create income, but you’ll need to become a landlord and cover maintenance, tenant issues, billing, and taxes which can be very complex. Sell directly for cash (the quickest) -- This avoids majors repairs, and months on the market. Cash buyers can often close in 30 days, which means faster relief from carrying costs. The best choice depends on your goals, but knowing these options helps you act with confidence rather than getting stuck.
Call Buys Houses Today!
If you’ve inherited a home that you don’t want or can’t afford, Buys Houses is here to help. We buy homes in any condition and can close within 30 days.
That means no repairs, no waiting, and no hassles. Contact Buys Houses today for a fair, no-obligation offer and move forward with peace of mind. You can also click on our Buys Houses profile and you can read more on what to do with an Inherited property or what your options might have.
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