Typical San Diego Probate Fees
When you become the executor or administrator of a loved one’s San Diego, estate you may start to feel inundated with probate fees from the courts, your attorney, and other parties. Bills for probate can quickly become overwhelming. This is why it is important to have a general idea of what the probate fees will be in advance so that you are prepared if they exceed what you had initially estimated. Keep in mind that this is just a general outline and does not reflect the exact circumstances for your San Diego probate situation. However, it will give you a ballpark idea of how much your estate fees may be.
San Diego Probate Court System Fees
The San Diego Probate Court requires that you pay an initial probate fee of $435 to file a petition for your letters of administration or testamentary. This initial fee is non-negotiable and is required for all San Diego probate cases. If your case is objected (either by the court or a third party), you have to re-file for probate, or any other complications occur, you will have to pay additional fees. You also are required to place a notice of San Diego probate in certain newspapers; you can expect that this will cost you anywhere from $100 to $450. These probate fees are non-negotiable and must be paid to finalize your court documents.
Attorney Fees
The attorney’s fees are more complicated to calculate because they are based on a sliding scale that is determined by the value of the estate’s assets. The sliding scale takes into account the full value of all the assets of the estate. For example, if the estate’s only asset is a $600,000 house with a $400,000 mortgage on it, the attorney’s sliding scale fee will still be calculated using the full $600,000 value of the estate.
Although you can file for probate without the help of an attorney, we do not recommend attempting to do so. The cost of the attorney’s fees will save you from mountains of paperwork, visitation trips to courts, and possible mistakes that will cost you unnecessary money and time. The attorney’s fees will be covered by the estate and is not a direct fee to you, the executor or administrator. We recommend finding an attorney with San Diego probate experience who can guide you through the process with ease. If needed, we can introduce you to an excellent San Diego probate attorney.
Executor or Administrator Fees
As the executor or administrator, you are entitled to be paid for the time you spend organizing and planning anything regarding the San Diego probate estate. However you are required to keep detailed records showing how much money you are owed. Keeping a record of your time is important as it will prevent disputes by the remaining heirs when the assets of the estate are finally distributed.
Real Estate Agent Fees
On average your real estate fees will be between 5 and 6 percent of the value of the house that is under the estate. You should always look for a real estate agent who is experienced in San Diego probate when trying to sell your loved one’s estate. However, finding such a qualified real estate agent can be tricky. That is why we suggest doing research and finding someone, like me, who is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of San Diego probate. Be sure to ask for references and testimonials; these will give you the most accurate assessment of how knowledgeable the agent is.
Final Thoughts
If the total value of the estate is around $600,000, you can expect to pay anywhere between $15,000 and $30,000 in fees. Know that every estate is different and the values covered above are just estimates for a smooth San Diego probate. If you still need help finding a knowledgeable San Diego probate attorney or a San Diego probate real estate expert, give me, Kim Ward, a call at (619)741-0111 or email me at KimWard@ProbateAndTrustHelp.com. I look forward to helping you settle your estate with ease.
