Personal representatives are often surprised to learn the decedent’s house still has tenants—a relative on a handshake deal, or a formal lease.
Empty is not always required
Retail buyers and many lenders want vacant homes. That pushes PRs into eviction timelines on top of probate. Cash investors who buy probate properties regularly can often purchase subject to existing occupants, then handle the tenancy after closing according to Florida law and the lease.
You still need proper authority to sell and clean advice from the estate’s attorney about notices and lease terms. But “we can’t sell until everyone is out” is not always true.
What to gather before you call
- Lease or written occupancy agreement (if any)
- Rent amount and who collects it
- Known problems (repairs, nonpayment)
- Whether anyone claims family rights to stay
We buy Florida probate houses as-is, including ones with tenants or relatives still living there, and we’ll tell you plainly if a cash sale doesn’t make sense. See Selling a House in Probate in Florida or call 321-316-1051.
Not legal advice. Tenant and probate rules are fact-specific.
Related guides: Can a personal representative sell a Florida house during probate? and Sell an inherited house in Orlando.