If you've been named executor, administrator, or trustee, you already have enough to carry. I guide California families through every step of a probate or trust sale — with patience, clarity, and a plan that protects the estate's value.
Free, confidential, and no obligation. I'll answer your questions and explain your options.
Settling an estate involves the court, the attorney, the other heirs, and a property that may need work — all while you're grieving. Here's how I take the real estate piece off your shoulders.
Court confirmation, the Independent Administration of Estates Act, overbids, notice requirements — I coordinate directly with your attorney and the court so deadlines are never missed.
Cleanouts, repairs, trusted vendors, and staging. Many heirs live elsewhere; I manage everything locally so you don't have to fly back and forth.
A proper market strategy often nets the estate far more than a quick cash offer — money that goes back to the family, not an investor.
When you call, you reach John Fontamillas — not an assistant, a call center, or a rotating team of associates. One person who knows your family, your property, and your case, personally handling every detail from our first conversation to closing day.
You'll always know what's happening now and what comes next. No jargon, no surprises.
We talk through the estate, the timeline, and your goals. No pressure, no obligation.
I provide a current market valuation and a clear plan that works with the court's requirements.
I handle cleanout, repairs, staging, and marketing to attract the strongest buyers.
I manage offers, any court confirmation, and closing — and keep every heir informed.
A plain-English walkthrough of everything you need to know before selling an inherited property — written for families, not attorneys.
A Family's Step-by-Step Guide to Probate & Trust Sales
2026 Edition · FreeVerified 5-star reviews from Zillow and Yelp.
“When my brother passed and I had to sell, John stepped in and walked me through the process. He took care of any and all repairs out of his pocket till escrow closed. He made such an overwhelming time so easy. When you are still in the midst of grieving and can hardly think, he just did it all.”
“I took over responsibility of selling my step-dad's home. It seemed pretty scary… John helped me so much to get all the paperwork and construction work done for the sale. Went through in a short time. Got a very good price. John answered all questions 24/7. Dependable, honest, efficient.”
“My brother and I had a wonderful experience working with John to sell our mom's home. He made the entire process simple and stress-free… Thanks to his expertise and negotiation skills, he was able to sell the house well above the asking price. We're incredibly grateful.”
“John stood out as professional and yet ‘down to Earth.’ He provided a realistic description of the sale process, expected prices, and market trends… always delivered on their promises. His selling strategy ended up yielding a price toward the top of the range. We could not be happier.”
Broker Associate & Co-Owner, Align Homes · DRE #01782532
I've spent my career helping California families navigate real estate during life's biggest transitions. Trust and probate sales are different — they call for patience, discretion, and someone who understands both the court process and the emotions involved. As a Broker Associate and co-owner of Align Homes, I bring senior-level experience and a hands-on, compassionate approach to every estate I serve. And you work with me directly — not an assistant or a rotating team. When you call, you get me.
Often, no. Depending on the authority granted by the court (full or limited under the Independent Administration of Estates Act), the property can frequently be marketed and sold during probate. I'll coordinate with your attorney to confirm what's possible in your case.
That's very common, and it's handled. I have trusted vendors for cleanouts, light repairs, and staging, and I manage the whole process — including for heirs who live out of state.
It can feel that way, but a quick cash offer often leaves significant money on the table — money that belongs to the family. A proper market strategy frequently nets the estate substantially more, even after costs.
I keep everyone informed in writing, coordinate directly with the estate attorney, and make sure every required notice and court deadline is respected. Transparency keeps families at ease.
Nothing. The initial consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation. My goal is to give you clarity, whether or not you decide to work with me.
A short, no-pressure conversation is the easiest first step.
Request My Free Consultation ☎ 323.610.0474