Sell an Inherited House in Des Moines, IA

Updated October 23, 2026 · Written by Brandon Wielenga, owner of River Capital LLC

If someone you love died owning a house in Des Moines, here's what most families learn too late: Iowa's small-estate affidavit cannot transfer real estate. If the deceased owned the house solely in their name, the estate will need to go through probate before anyone can legally sell it. That sounds daunting, but it's a well-worn path — and houses in exactly this situation are what we deal with every day.

Your Options in Des Moines

Open probate — the standard route; a personal representative is appointed and the court oversees the transfer.
Small estate administration — Iowa's simplified court process (Chapter 635) for estates up to $200,000.
Sell during probate — in many cases the house can be sold while probate is underway, with court approval.
Sell your interest directly — if multiple heirs are involved and some want out, we buy partial interests too.
Transfer on death deed — if the deceased recorded one, the house may pass without probate at all.

We'll help you figure out which path fits — and if the estate is stalled, how to get it moving.

How Inherited Property Works in Iowa

When someone dies owning Iowa real estate solely in their name, title doesn't automatically pass to the family — it takes a court process. The small estate affidavit (§ 633.356) that works for bank accounts and vehicles (personal property up to $50,000, 40-day wait) explicitly cannot transfer real estate. Property held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship passes automatically to the surviving owner. A transfer on death deed, if recorded before death, also avoids probate.

Everything else goes through the Polk County District Court. Smaller estates may qualify for the streamlined small estate administration. (General information, not legal advice — a local probate attorney can confirm your path quickly.)

Why Des Moines families with inherited houses call us

We specialize in stuck titles — stalled probates, missing heirs, cloudy chains
We buy partial heir interests, not just whole houses
We buy as-is — cleanouts and repairs are on us
No fees, no commissions, no pressure

Discuss Your Options Or Get a Cash Offer

Common Questions

Inherited House in Des Moines — FAQs

Can I sell Mom's house if probate was never opened?

Not until someone has legal authority — but opening probate now is usually straightforward, and the house can often be sold during the process.

My siblings and I inherited together and can't agree. What then?

You have options: buy each other out, agree to sell, or sell your individual interest. We've worked through all three.

The house is full of belongings and needs work. Do I have to clean it out?

No — we buy as-is, contents and all.

Own a Problem Property in Des Moines?

Let's talk it through. We'll give you a straight answer and a clear look at every option — no pressure, no obligation.