California Probate Law Update 2025 | Simplified Transfers
Important Update: California’s Simplified Probate Procedure Expands in 2025
New Law Allows Easier Inheritance of Homes Valued Up to $750,000
Navigating the loss of a loved one is never easy. And when real estate is involved, the emotional toll is often compounded by legal and financial complexities. Fortunately, a major change in California probate law takes effect on April 1, 2025, offering relief to many families.
What’s Changing?
Until now, California allowed a simplified probate procedure for real estate valued at $184,500 or less. This process helps families bypass traditional probate, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Starting April 1, 2025, that threshold increases to $750,000 for a decedent's primary residence. Under this new law:
Families can transfer ownership of qualifying real estate without full probate
This applies through an affidavit procedure or similar simplified filing
The update reflects California’s acknowledgment of rising home prices
This means many more estates will now qualify for quicker, more affordable transfers of property to heirs.
Who Does This Affect?
This law applies to anyone who passes away on or after April 1, 2025.
To qualify:
The real estate must be the primary residence
The gross value must not exceed $750,000
Other conditions and documentation may be required, depending on the situation
This change benefits:
Families inheriting a home
Executors and administrators managing estates
Attorneys assisting with estate planning or probate avoidance
Anyone looking to sell inherited real estate without going through probate
Why Is This Update So Important?
Traditional probate can take 9–12 months or longer and incur significant legal fees. By expanding access to simplified procedures, the new law:
Speeds up the inheritance process
Reduces court involvement and delays
Cuts down legal costs
Eases the stress of managing a loved one’s estate during an already emotional time
In short: families will be able to access, live in, or sell inherited property faster and with less red tape.
How Legacy Trusts and Probate Can Help
At Legacy Trusts and Probate, we specialize in guiding families through probate, trust sales, and estate transitions. With this legal update, we’re prepared to help you:
Understand how the new law applies to your situation
Evaluate whether your inherited home qualifies
Navigate the simplified process
Prepare and sell the home, if needed
Whether you're an heir, a trustee, or an attorney managing an estate, our experienced team is here to assist with expertise and compassion.
If you have questions about selling inherited property or how to avoid probate in California, we’re here for you.
