From Executor to Certified Specialist – Mick’s Journey

Hi, I’m Mick.

When I became the Executor of my mother’s estate — 600 miles away from my home — I quickly realized that estate representative responsibilities took far more time and effort than I ever imagined. There were so many decisions to be made that it was hard to know where to start.

I knew something had to be done regarding the house I grew up in, but the probate real estate process seemed like an enormous amount of stress at an emotionally fragile time.

I really wanted to buy the home as a rental, but since I lived in Georgia and the property was in Maryland, it just wasn’t practical. My sister wanted to do the same but wasn’t in the financial position to make it happen. 

The only realistic option was to sell the house.

As retired Licensed Residential Contractors and experienced real estate agents, my wife and I knew exactly how to maximize the home’s value.

But in Maryland, I was a long way from my home in Georgia, without my tools, the time, or a trusted network of tradesmen needed to do a proper rehab. Fortunately, my sister did know the right people and, after several trips to Maryland, the rehab got done under our guidance.

The other key element I had to find was a knowledgeable real estate agent who truly understood the real estate probate process.  After many interviews, we found a REALTOR® who was a home valuation expert and who sold it for much more than my doubting sister thought was remotely possible.

Since then, I’ve become a Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist. Through my experience, I’ve found that many estate representatives need exactly what I needed at one time.

I’ve been in your situation. I know the probate process and I know real estate. That’s why it’s my goal to provide the resources and insights to help make your job as an estate representative much easier.

Sincerely,
Mick

Mick Chiofalo, probate real estate expert