How to Sell a House in a Trust in Louisiana: What You Need to Know
If you’re wondering how to sell a house in a trust in Louisiana, you’re not alone. Many homeowners and heirs face this exact situation—and it’s often more straightforward than people realize, especially if you understand the process and work with experienced professionals.
At BuyHousesBR, we help homeowners across Louisiana sell properties in all kinds of situations, including homes held in trusts. Whether you’re a trustee, an heir, or someone managing a family estate, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selling a house in a trust.
What Does It Mean to Sell a House in a Trust?
A trust is a legal entity that holds property for the benefit of one or more people. In the case of real estate, the trust technically owns the home, but a trustee is responsible for managing the asset, including the right to sell the house (if permitted by the trust’s terms).
There are two common types of trusts in Louisiana:
- Revocable Trust – Can be changed or terminated by the grantor while they are alive.
- Irrevocable Trust – Cannot be changed without court approval or the consent of all beneficiaries.
Understanding what type of trust you’re dealing with is the first step when figuring out how to sell a house in a trust.
Can You Sell a House That Is in a Trust?
Yes, you can sell a house in a trust, but only the person (or people) legally designated as trustee(s) can. The process is different depending on whether the trust is revocable or irrevocable and whether the grantor (the person who created the trust) is still living.
If the Trust Is Revocable:
The grantor often still has full control and can sell the house or direct the trustee to do so.
If the Trust Is Irrevocable:
The trustee must follow the trust’s terms and ensure that the sale benefits the beneficiaries. They may need to get approval from all beneficiaries or from a court, depending on how the trust is written.
Steps to Sell a House in a Trust in Louisiana
If you’re planning on selling a house in a trust in Louisiana, here’s how:
1. Review the Trust Document
Start by reading the trust agreement. It should spell out whether the trustee has the power to sell the property and under what conditions. Make sure no restrictions apply to the sale.
2. Verify Trustee Authority
Only the trustee can legally sign documents and sell the home. You may need a Certificate of Trust to show proof of authority during the transaction.
3. Gather Legal and Property Documents
You’ll need:
- The trust agreement or certificate of trust
- The property deed
- A title report
- ID for the trustee
- Any required consents or resolutions
These documents confirm the trust owns the house and that the trustee has the legal right to sell it.
4. Work with a Title Company or Attorney
In Louisiana, a title company or closing attorney will handle the transaction. They’ll ensure the trust is properly documented and that title can be transferred to the buyer without issues.
5. Prepare for Taxes and Beneficiary Distributions
If the house is sold for a profit, there could be capital gains taxes or other tax implications for the trust or beneficiaries. Consult with an estate planning attorney or tax professional for guidance.
Why Sell a House in a Trust to BuyHousesBR?
If you’re a trustee or family member trying to figure out how to sell a house in a trust in Louisiana—especially one that needs repairs or is sitting vacant—we can help.
At BuyHousesBR, we specialize in buying homes in all situations, including:
- Trusts and estates
- Inherited properties
- Outdated or damaged homes
- Vacant or unoccupied houses
We offer fast, fair cash offers, close on your timeline, and handle most of the paperwork. No cleaning, fixing, or stress required.
Final Thoughts: Selling a House in a Trust Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Whether the home is in a revocable or irrevocable trust, the key to selling it successfully is understanding who has legal authority and what the trust allows. With the right support, the process of selling a house in a trust can be smooth and even simple.
If you’re looking to sell a house in a trust in Baton Rouge or anywhere in Louisiana, reach out to BuyHousesBR today for a no-obligation offer. We’re experienced, local, and ready to help you move forward.
Contact us today and let’s talk about your options.