Should I Keep It or Sell It? How to Decide What to Do With an Inherited Property in Ventura County
Inheriting a home is one of those life moments that can stir up a mix of emotions—grief, gratitude, confusion, and often, overwhelm. Especially here in Ventura County, where the property itself may hold deep family history, financial value, or both.
If you’ve recently inherited a home, you may be asking yourself: What now?
Should you keep it and make it your own? Rent it out for income? Or sell it and use the equity to start a new chapter? Each option comes with its own set of opportunities and considerations.
Let’s walk through what to think about—practically and emotionally—when making this very personal decision.
Step One: Acknowledge the Emotional Weight
Before we get into numbers and market strategy, let’s pause.
Inheriting a home is never just a transaction—it’s tied to someone’s legacy. It may be the house where you spent holidays or summers, or it may belong to a relative you didn’t know well. Either way, it’s okay to take a breath. Give yourself time and space to process before rushing into a decision.
Step Two: Understand the Legal & Financial Landscape
Inherited properties in California often go through probate, unless they were placed in a trust. You’ll want to work with an estate attorney or tax professional to review:
- Ownership transfer process
- Outstanding mortgages or liens
- Property taxes and reassessment laws (Prop 19)
- Capital gains tax implications if you decide to sell
It’s important to get clarity on what you own—and what it may cost to keep it.
Step Three: Assess the Property’s Condition and Value
Ventura County’s real estate market remains strong, especially for homes with charm, land, or coastal access. But if the home hasn’t been updated in decades or has deferred maintenance, you’ll want to weigh the investment needed to bring it up to market standards.
A local real estate agent (like myself) can provide:
- A current market valuation
- A walk-through to assess its market readiness
- Contractor referrals if renovations are being considered
Should You Keep the Home?
Keeping the property may make sense if:
- You plan to live in it and the location fits your lifestyle
- The home is mortgage-free or easy to maintain financially
- The emotional connection outweighs potential gain
For many, it’s a chance to hold on to a piece of family history—and sometimes, that’s priceless.
Should You Rent It?
This can be a good middle ground if:
- You want to keep the asset but aren’t ready to move in
- The area has high rental demand (like Midtown Ventura or parts of Camarillo)
- You’re comfortable managing tenants or hiring a property manager
Just remember: being a landlord comes with responsibilities, including maintenance, insurance, and possible vacancy periods.
Should You Sell It?
Selling may be the right choice if:
- You don’t want to manage the upkeep
- You’re sharing the inheritance with siblings and want a clean split
- The property has strong equity and you could use that toward your own goals
In Ventura County, homes with charm and good location are still in demand. With the right pricing and presentation, you could see a strong return—without the stress of long-term ownership.
You Don’t Have to Decide Alone
I’ve helped many clients through the process of selling or transitioning inherited homes. I understand that this isn’t just real estate—it’s personal. If you need someone to walk you through your options with honesty, care, and a clear plan, I’m here for you.
Whether you’re leaning toward keeping it, renting it, or listing it, let’s talk through it together. You deserve support that honors both your heart and your financial future.
