Table of Contents (8 sections)
Selling an inherited house in Yuba City, Marysville, or surrounding Yuba-Sutter communities involves navigating California's probate process, understanding tax implications, and making critical decisions about property condition and sale method. This complete guide provides executors and heirs with everything you need to know.
Understanding Inherited Property in California
Not all inherited property requires probate. The path you take depends on how the deceased owner held title to the property.
Note: Executors and heirs must also complete California seller disclosure requirements when selling inherited property—even in probate sales.
Properties That Avoid Probate
California law provides several mechanisms that allow inherited property to transfer without formal probate proceedings.
Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship
When property is held in joint tenancy, ownership automatically transfers to the surviving joint tenant upon death. This is common between spouses in Yuba County and Sutter County.
Key Requirements:
- Record Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant with county recorder
- Clear title before selling
- All joint tenants must have signed original deed
Living Trust Property
Real estate held in a revocable living trust transfers directly to trust beneficiaries according to trust terms, bypassing probate court entirely. Living trusts are increasingly popular in Yuba City and Marysville for estate planning.
Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed
Beneficiaries inherit automatically without probate proceedings. However, TOD deeds can create complications with multiple beneficiaries who may disagree about selling or keeping the property.
Community Property with Right of Survivorship
For married couples only, this title format allows direct transfer to the surviving spouse without probate. The property must be designated as community property with right of survivorship on the deed.
Properties Requiring Probate
Sole Ownership
If the deceased owned the property in their name alone, the estate must go through probate before heirs can sell or transfer the property.
Tenancy in Common
Unlike joint tenancy, tenancy in common ownership does not include survivorship rights. The deceased's share must pass through probate to designated heirs.
Small Estate Considerations
California provides a simplified process for estates valued under $184,500. However, most properties in Yuba County and Sutter County exceed this threshold, requiring full probate proceedings.
The California Probate Process
The probate process in Yuba County and Sutter County typically takes 9-18 months from filing to close. Consequently, understanding each phase helps executors plan effectively and avoid costly delays. Here's what executors and heirs need to know.
Filing the Probate Petition
Which Court?
Sutter County Superior Court
📍 1175 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993
📞 (530) 822-7305
Handles estates for: Yuba City, Live Oak, and surrounding Sutter County communities
Yuba County Superior Court
📍 215 Fifth Street, Marysville, CA 95901
📞 (530) 740-1400
Handles estates for: Marysville, Linda, Olivehurst, Wheatland, and Yuba County areas
Required Documents
The executor must file:
- Petition for Probate with detailed property information
- Original will (if one exists) or indication of intestacy
- Death certificate (certified copy)
- Complete list of estate assets and estimated values
The court sets a hearing date 30-45 days after filing. Notice must be published in a local newspaper and mailed to all heirs and beneficiaries.
Appointment of Executor or Administrator
At the hearing, the court formally appoints the executor (if there's a will) or administrator (if there's no will) and issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.
Independent Administration (RECOMMENDED)
Independent Administration allows the executor to sell real estate without court approval, significantly speeding up the process.
Benefits:
- Sell property without court confirmation hearing
- Faster timeline for heirs to receive proceeds
- Lower legal costs (fewer court appearances)
- More attractive to buyers (no court approval contingency)
Important
You must request Independent Administration in the initial petition. It cannot be added later.
Standard Probate Administration
Without Independent Administration, the executor must petition the court for approval to sell real estate. This requires:
- Court hearing with minimum 10-day notice
- Buyers can be "overbid" at the hearing
- Additional 3-4 months to timeline
- Higher uncertainty for buyers
Creditor Claims Period
California law requires a 4-month creditor claims period during which creditors can file claims against the estate. This period begins when the executor is appointed.
Impact on Property Sales:
- Title companies often require the 4-month period to expire before issuing title insurance
- Some cash buyers will purchase during the claims period with proper protection
- Traditional buyers typically wait until the period expires
Typical Probate Timeline
Month 1-2:
File petition, publish notice, hearing date set
Month 2-3:
Court hearing, executor appointed
Month 3-7:
Creditor claims period, property preparation
Month 7-12:
Marketing, sale negotiations, purchase contract
Month 12-15:
Escrow, final accounting
Month 15-18:
Court approval of final distribution, close estate
Tax Implications of Selling Inherited Property
Understanding tax implications can save you thousands of dollars when selling inherited property in Yuba City, Marysville, or surrounding areas.
Step-Up in Cost Basis
One of the most valuable tax benefits of inheriting property is the step-up in cost basis.
Real Example: Yuba City Home
- 1985: Mother bought home for $85,000
- 2024: Mother passes away, home appraised at $425,000
- Your new cost basis: $425,000 (NOT $85,000!)
- You sell for: $430,000
- Your taxable gain: Only $5,000 (NOT $345,000!)
This step-up in basis can eliminate hundreds of thousands of dollars in capital gains taxes. The basis "steps up" to fair market value on the date of death.
Capital Gains Tax
When you sell inherited property for more than the stepped-up basis, you owe capital gains tax on the difference.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term
Inherited property is automatically treated as long-term, regardless of how long you hold it. This is advantageous because long-term capital gains rates are lower than short-term rates.
Federal Capital Gains Rates
- 0% - For income under $44,625 (single) or $89,250 (married)
- 15% - For income $44,625-$492,300 (single) or $89,250-$553,850 (married)
- 20% - For income over $492,300 (single) or $553,850 (married)
California State Capital Gains
California does not have preferential capital gains rates. Gains are taxed as ordinary income at California's rate up to 13.3%—one of the highest state tax rates in the nation.
Total Tax Impact Example (on $100,000 gain):
- Federal (15%): $15,000
- California (13.3%): $13,300
- Total: $28,300
Primary Residence Exclusion
The $250,000/$500,000 primary residence exclusion generally does not apply to inherited property unless you:
Requirements:
- Move into the inherited property and use it as your primary residence
- Live there for 2 out of 5 years before selling
- Meet IRS ownership and use tests
For most executors and heirs selling inherited property in Yuba-Sutter, this exclusion is not available.
1031 Exchange Limitations
1031 exchanges do not apply to inherited property sold by executors during probate. This tax-deferral strategy only works for investment properties you already own, not properties being liquidated through probate.
Proposition 19 (Effective February 2021)
Proposition 19 dramatically changed how inherited property is taxed for California property tax purposes.
The Parent-Child Transfer Exclusion
Before Proposition 19, children could inherit their parents' low property tax assessment. That changed in 2021.
Now, to keep the low assessment, you must:
- Move into the property within one year
- Use it as your primary residence
- Property value ≤ (assessed value + $1 million)
For properties in Yuba City, Live Oak, and Marysville, where values have increased significantly, failing to move in can cost tens of thousands of dollars in additional property taxes.
Estate Tax Considerations
Federal Estate Tax
The federal estate tax exemption for 2024 is $13.61 million per individual or $27.22 million for married couples. Most estates in Yuba County and Sutter County fall well below this threshold and owe no federal estate tax.
If estate exceeds exemption:
- IRS Form 706 must be filed
- Due 9 months after death (can request 6-month extension)
- Tax rates range from 18% to 40%
California Estate Tax
California does not have a state estate tax. Only federal estate tax applies (if estate exceeds exemption threshold).
Example: Marysville Property
- Parents' assessed value: $180,000 (purchased 1978)
- Current fair market value: $450,000
- Property taxes at old assessment: $2,200/year
Scenario 1: You Move In
- •Property value ($450,000) minus assessed value ($180,000) = $270,000 difference
- •Difference is under $1 million ✓
- •You keep the $180,000 assessment
- •Annual property taxes remain $2,200/year
Scenario 2: You Don't Move In (Or Sell)
- •Property reassessed at full $450,000 market value
- •Annual property taxes jump to $5,500/year
- •Increase: $3,300/year in property taxes
For properties in Yuba City, Live Oak, and Marysville, where values have increased significantly, failing to move in can cost tens of thousands of dollars in additional property taxes.
Property Condition Challenges
Inherited properties often come with condition issues that complicate traditional sales. Understanding these challenges helps you make informed decisions.
Common Issues with Inherited Property
Properties in Yuba City, Marysville, and surrounding areas frequently have these problems:
Deferred Maintenance
Many inherited properties have years of neglected repairs. Aging homeowners often couldn't afford or physically manage upkeep. Common issues include:
- Roof leaks and deterioration
- Plumbing problems (old galvanized pipes)
- Electrical systems needing updates
- HVAC systems past their lifespan
- Exterior paint and siding damage
Flood Zone Concerns
Properties in Linda, Olivehurst, and areas near the Feather River may be in FEMA flood zones. This creates challenges:
- Flood insurance required by most lenders
- FHA and VA financing often unavailable
- Higher insurance costs reduce buyer pool
- Disclosure requirements to all potential buyers
Foundation Issues
Yuba-Sutter has expansive clay soils that cause foundation movement. Watch for:
- Cracks in foundation and walls
- Doors and windows that don't close properly
- Uneven floors and visible settling
- Moisture intrusion and drainage problems
Title Issues
Inherited properties may have title clouds that prevent clear transfer:
- Old liens or judgments against deceased
- Boundary disputes with neighbors
- Unpaid property taxes creating tax liens
- Unclear ownership from incomplete probate
Property Clean-Out
Decades of belongings can overwhelm heirs who live far away or have limited time. Estate contents may include:
- Furniture, appliances, personal items
- Stored items in garage, attic, basement
- Vehicles, tools, equipment
- Items with emotional significance
Code Violations
Unpermitted additions or outdated systems can create problems:
- Unpermitted room additions or conversions
- Electrical work not to code
- Plumbing modifications without permits
- Zoning violations (accessory structures)
Why Selling As-Is Makes Sense
For many executors and heirs in Yuba County and Sutter County, selling as-is to a cash buyer solves these problems.
Benefits of As-Is Sales:
No Repair Costs
Sell the property in current condition without spending money on repairs. This is especially valuable when:
- Estate funds are limited
- Repairs would cost $20,000-$50,000+
- Heirs don't have cash to advance
- Property needs extensive work
Avoiding Repair Negotiations
Traditional buyers typically request $10,000-$30,000 in repairs after inspections. As-is sales eliminate:
- Lengthy negotiation periods
- Multiple repair bids and estimates
- Contractor scheduling and delays
- Quality disputes over repair work
Timeline Benefits
As-is cash sales close in 14-30 days compared to 60-90 days for traditional sales. This means:
- Faster distribution to heirs
- Lower holding costs (utilities, taxes, insurance)
- Less stress managing distant property
- Quicker estate closure
Lower Overall Stress
Managing repairs from out of area while dealing with grief and family dynamics creates significant stress. As-is sales eliminate:
- Contractor management from distance
- Property access coordination
- Repair approval decisions
- Quality control challenges
Dealing with Multiple Heirs
When multiple heirs inherit property together, disagreements about selling, keeping, or pricing are common. Here's how to navigate these challenges.
Common Scenarios in Yuba-Sutter
One Heir Wants to Keep the Property
Scenario: Three siblings inherit their parents' Yuba City home. One sibling wants to keep it for sentimental reasons, but the other two need their inheritance money.
Challenge: The sibling who wants to keep it may not have the cash to buy out the other two at fair market value.
Solutions:
- Buyout with financing - Sibling obtains mortgage to buy others' shares
- Delayed distribution - Keep property temporarily, refinance later
- Rental arrangement - Rent to keeping sibling at market rate
Disagreements About Value
Scenario: Heirs disagree on whether the Marysville property is worth $350,000 or $425,000.
Challenge: Without consensus on value, heirs can't agree whether to accept offers or hold out for more.
Solutions:
- Professional appraisal - Hire independent MAI appraiser (cost: $400-$600)
- Multiple broker opinions - Get 3 BPOs from local agents
- Average the estimates - Use median of professional opinions
Financial Strain on One Heir
Scenario: Four heirs inherit property but one is financially struggling and needs cash immediately while others want to wait for higher price.
Challenge: Holding costs (property taxes, insurance, utilities) may strain the heir who needs money most.
Solutions:
- Advance from estate - Some heirs may loan money against future distribution
- Unequal distribution - Struggling heir gets cash now, others get property later
- Quick cash sale - Sell to investor for immediate distribution to all
Geographic Distance
Scenario: Heirs live in Sacramento, San Francisco, and Arizona. None can easily manage the Live Oak property.
Challenge: Property sits vacant, deteriorates, becomes target for vandalism or squatters.
Solutions:
- Local property manager - Hire manager in Yuba City ($100-$150/month)
- Quick sale - Sell as-is to avoid management burden
- Appoint local executor - One heir or professional handles locally
Legal Solutions for Heir Disputes
When heirs cannot reach agreement, California law provides formal remedies.
Partition Action
Partition is a legal proceeding that forces the sale of property when co-owners cannot agree.
Buyout Agreements
Heirs can formalize buyout arrangements with proper legal documentation.
Heirs can formalize buyout arrangements with proper legal documentation.
Key Elements:
- Professional appraisal establishes fair market value
- Payment terms clearly specified (lump sum or installments)
- Quit claim deeds transfer ownership shares
- Promissory notes if payments over time
- Security interest protects selling heirs if payments
Financing Options for Buyouts:
- Conventional mortgage - Buying heir qualifies for loan
- Hard money loan - Short-term financing (6-12 months)
- Family loan arrangement - Structured payment plan between heirs
- Estate advance - Borrow against anticipated inheritance
Selling to a Cash Buyer: The Practical Solution
When heirs are geographically dispersed or disagree about repairs, timeline, or value, a cash sale offers several advantages:
Benefits for Multiple Heirs:
- Quick resolution (14-30 days) satisfies all parties
- No disputes about repair costs or who pays upfront
- Guaranteed closing eliminates deal-falling-through stress
- Clean distribution of proceeds based on ownership percentages
- No ongoing property management responsibilities
How It Works:
Step 1:
One heir files Partition Action in Sutter or Yuba County Superior Court
Step 2:
Court appoints referee to oversee sale
Step 3:
Property sold at public auction or through court-approved broker
Step 4:
Proceeds divided among heirs according to ownership percentages
Step 5:
Court fees and legal costs deducted from proceeds
Downsides:
- Lower sale prices (motivated seller, court timeline)
- Significant legal costs reduce everyone's inheritance
- Damaged family relationships from adversarial process
Cash Sale vs Traditional Sale Comparison
Understanding the true cost difference between cash and traditional sales helps executors make informed decisions. Here's a detailed analysis using a typical Yuba City inherited property.
Example Property
$400,000 inherited house in Yuba City
Needs $35,000 in repairs (roof, HVAC, cosmetic updates)
Currently empty, paying $1,500/month holding costs
Cost Comparison Table
| Category | Traditional Sale | Cash Sale |
|---|---|---|
| Sale Price | $400,000 | $290,000 |
| Upfront Repairs | $35,000 | $0 |
| Staging & Inspections | $3,000 | $0 |
| Agent Commission (6%) | $24,000 | $0 |
| Title & Escrow | $3,500 | $1,500 |
| Transfer Tax | $440 | $319 |
| Misc Closing Costs | $3,560 | $181 |
| Holding Costs (time) | $5,000 (4 months) | $850 (3 weeks) |
| Total Costs | $75,000 | $2,850 |
| NET TO HEIRS | $325,000 | $287,150 |
| TIMELINE | 4-6 months | 14-30 days |
| CASH REQUIRED | $38,000 | $0 |
| Uncertainty | High (30-40% fail) | Low (guaranteed) |
Net Difference: Traditional sale nets $37,850 more, but requires $38,000 upfront cash and 4-5 months additional time.
But Consider the Hidden Costs
$38,000 cash required upfront - Most estates don't have this available, forcing heirs to:
- Advance money from personal funds
- Take loans against the property
- Delay the sale until estate funds accumulate
4-5 months additional waiting means:
- Continued stress and property management
- Risk of property deterioration
- Delayed estate distribution
- Extended family uncertainty
30-40% deal failure rate - Traditional sales often fall through:
- Low appraisal kills the deal
- Buyer loses financing
- Inspection reveals more issues
- Back to market, losing 2-3 months
Holding costs continue at $1,500/month:
- Property taxes accumulate
- Insurance, utilities never stop
- Risk of vandalism or squatters
- Lawn and maintenance required
When Cash Sales Make More Sense
For many executors and heirs in Yuba-Sutter, cash sales are the better choice when:
Financial Constraints
- Estate has limited liquid funds for repairs
- Heirs cannot or won't advance repair money
- Property has major deferred maintenance ($50,000+)
Time Constraints
- Heirs need quick distribution to pay bills or debts
- Probate court wants estate closed quickly
- Property is deteriorating while sitting vacant
Distance Challenges
- Heirs live out of area (Sacramento, Bay Area, out of state)
- Nobody can manage contractors or attend showings
- Property security concerns with vacancy
Market Conditions
- Property in flood zone (Linda, Olivehurst)
- Foundation issues or other major defects
- Declining neighborhood or area values
- Stigmatized property (death at property, etc.)
Family Dynamics
- Multiple heirs with disagreements
- Need clean break and equal distribution
- Want to avoid conflict over repair decisions
- Geographic spread makes coordination difficult
When Traditional Sales Make More Sense
Property Condition
- Property is move-in ready or needs only cosmetic updates ($5,000-$10,000)
- Well-maintained home in desirable area
- Recent updates (roof, HVAC, etc.)
Financial Flexibility
- Estate has cash reserves for repairs
- Heirs can advance funds for improvements
- No urgency for distribution
Time Flexibility
- Probate allows extended timeline
- Heirs can wait for best offer
- No pressure for quick distribution
The Bottom Line
For many families in Yuba County and Sutter County, the $37,850 difference isn't worth:
- $38,000 upfront cash requirement
- 4-5 months of stress and uncertainty
- 30-40% risk of deal falling through
- Continued holding costs and property management
A quick, certain close provides peace of mind and allows everyone to move forward. Thus, for many families, the speed and certainty outweigh the difference in net proceeds.
Working with Probate Attorneys
Most executors hire a probate attorney to navigate California's complex probate process. Understanding attorney services and fees helps you budget appropriately.
What Probate Attorneys Do
Probate attorneys in Yuba County and Sutter County provide essential services:
Court Document Preparation
Attorneys prepare all required court filings:
- Petition for Probate with detailed asset schedules
- Notice of Hearing to heirs and beneficiaries
- Inventory and Appraisal of estate assets
- Account and Report of financial transactions
- Petition for Final Distribution to close estate
Without an attorney, executors often make filing errors that delay probate by months. Therefore, most Yuba-Sutter executors find professional legal guidance cost-effective.
Navigate Court Procedures
Attorneys guide executors through:
- Which court to file in (Sutter or Yuba County)
- Proper notice requirements for hearings
- Creditor claim procedures and timelines
- Accounting requirements for estate funds
- Distribution procedures to beneficiaries
California probate has strict deadlines and technical requirements. Missing deadlines can result in removal as executor.
Obtain Independent Administration
Most important: Attorneys know how to request Independent Administration in the initial petition, allowing you to sell property without court approval.
Value: Saves 3-4 months and $5,000-$10,000 in additional legal fees compared to court-confirmed sales.
Clear Title Issues
Attorneys resolve:
- Old liens or judgments against the deceased
- Boundary disputes with neighbors
- Unclear ownership from previous transfers
- Tax liens or assessment issues
These issues can prevent closing if not properly resolved.
Protect Executor from Liability
Executors have legal duties to:
- Preserve estate assets
- Pay valid creditor claims
- Distribute assets correctly
- Account for all financial transactions
Mistakes can create personal liability. Attorneys ensure you follow proper procedures and protect yourself.
Handle Heir Disputes
When heirs disagree about property distribution, sale price or timing, executor decisions, or will interpretation, attorneys mediate disputes and, if necessary, represent the estate in court proceedings.
Statutory Attorney Fees in California
California law sets statutory fees for probate attorneys based on estate value.
Fee Schedule
Based on the gross estate value (before debts):
First $100,000: 4% = $4,000
Next $100,000: 3% = $3,000
Next $800,000: 2% = $16,000 (on $800K)
Next $9 million: 1% = $90,000 (on $9M)
Next $15 million: 0.5% = $75,000 (on $15M)
Above $25 million: Court determines reasonable fee
Example: $400,000 Estate
For a $400,000 estate (typical Yuba City home):
- First $100,000 × 4% = $4,000
- Next $100,000 × 3% = $3,000
- Next $200,000 × 2% = $4,000
- Total statutory fee: $11,000
This is the ordinary statutory fee for routine probate work.
Extraordinary Fees
Additional fees may apply for:
- Litigation (will contests, creditor disputes)
- Tax return preparation (Form 706 estate tax return)
- Real estate sales requiring extra work
- Business valuations or complex assets
- Out-of-ordinary legal work
Attorneys must petition the court for approval of extraordinary fees, demonstrating the work performed and reasonableness.
Hourly Attorneys vs. Statutory
Some attorneys work on hourly basis instead of statutory fees:
Hourly Rates in Yuba-Sutter:
- $300-$450/hour for experienced probate attorneys
- $150-$250/hour for associate attorneys or paralegals
When Hourly Makes Sense:
- Simple estates under $200,000
- Uncontested probates with cooperative heirs
- Short timeline (6-9 months)
When Statutory Makes Sense:
- Complex estates with multiple properties
- Heir disputes requiring attorney mediation
- Title issues or creditor problems
- Long timeline (12-18 months)
Finding a Probate Attorney in Yuba-Sutter
Questions to Ask:
"How many probate cases do you handle annually?"
Look for 50+ cases per year minimum. Specialized probate attorneys know court staff and procedures.
"Will you request Independent Administration?"
Critical question - saves months and money. Should be automatic in initial petition.
"What's your fee arrangement?"
- Statutory or hourly?
- How are extraordinary fees handled?
- Payment schedule?
"How do you communicate with executors?"
- Email, phone, text?
- Response time expectations?
- Paralegal involvement?
"Have you worked with the local courts?"
- Sutter County Superior Court familiarity?
- Yuba County Superior Court familiarity?
- Relationship with court staff?
California allows self-representation in probate. However:
Challenges:
- Complex legal requirements and deadlines
- Court staff cannot give legal advice
- Mistakes can delay probate by many months
- Liability risks for improper administration
- Title companies may require attorney for clearance
When Self-Representation Works:
- Small, simple estates under $100,000
- No real estate to sell
- All heirs agree and cooperate
- No creditor disputes
- Executor has time to learn procedures
For most Yuba-Sutter inherited property cases involving real estate sales, hiring an attorney is cost-effective and provides peace of mind.
The $11,000 statutory fee for a $400,000 estate represents about 2.75% of the estate value—a reasonable cost for expert guidance through a 9-18 month process with significant financial and legal consequences.
Local Resources in Yuba-Sutter
Executors and heirs need to work with several local government offices. Here's your complete contact guide for Yuba County and Sutter County.
Probate Courts
Sutter County Superior Court
📍 Address: 1175 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993
📞 Phone: (530) 822-7305
🌐 Website: www.sutter.courts.ca.gov
Jurisdiction: Handles probate for residents of Yuba City, Live Oak, Meridian, and all other Sutter County communities.
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed weekends and court holidays)
Probate Department: Counter service for filing petitions, obtaining hearing dates, and filing required documents. Court staff can answer procedural questions but cannot provide legal advice.
Yuba County Superior Court
📍 Address: 215 Fifth Street, Suite 200, Marysville, CA 95901
📞 Phone: (530) 740-1400
🌐 Website: www.yubacourts.org
Jurisdiction: Handles probate for residents of Marysville, Linda, Olivehurst, Wheatland, Beale AFB, and all other Yuba County communities.
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed weekends and court holidays)
Probate Department: Located in Suite 200. Accepts probate petitions, schedules hearings, and maintains probate case files.
County Recorders
County recorders handle property deeds, death certificates, and title documents.
Sutter County Recorder
📍 Address: Sutter County Recorder-Clerk, 1130 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993
📞 Phone: (530) 822-7122
🌐 Website: www.suttercounty.org/recorder
Services:
- Record Affidavit of Death for Joint Tenancy
- Obtain certified death certificates
- Record deeds transferring property
- Search property records and ownership history
- Copy recorded documents
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Recording Fees:
- First page: $15
- Each additional page: $3
- Death certificates: $21 each
Yuba County Recorder
📍 Address: Yuba County Clerk-Recorder, 915 Eighth Street, Suite 107, Marysville, CA 95901
📞 Phone: (530) 749-7840
🌐 Website: www.yubasutter.com/recorder
Services:
- Record Affidavit of Death for Joint Tenancy
- Obtain certified death certificates
- Record deeds and transfers
- Title searches and document copies
- Marriage licenses and vital records
Hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Recording Fees:
- First page: $15
- Each additional page: $3
- Death certificates: $21 each
County Assessors
County assessors handle property tax assessments and Proposition 19 issues.
Sutter County Assessor
📍 Address: Sutter County Assessor, 1130 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993
📞 Phone: (530) 822-7120
🌐 Website: www.suttercounty.org/assessor
Services:
- Property tax assessment questions
- Proposition 19 parent-child exclusion applications
- Property value estimates and appeals
- Homeowner exemptions and exclusions
- Change of ownership reporting
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Important Deadlines:
- Proposition 19 claim: File within 1 year of parent's death
- Change of ownership: Report within 90 days
- Homeowner exemption: February 15 annually
Yuba County Assessor
📍 Address: Yuba County Assessor, 915 Eighth Street, Suite 105, Marysville, CA 95901
📞 Phone: (530) 749-7820
🌐 Website: www.yubacounty.org/assessor
Services:
- Property tax assessment and valuation
- Proposition 19 exclusion filing
- Property ownership questions
- Assessment appeals
- Exemptions and exclusions
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Important Deadlines:
- Proposition 19 claim: Within 1 year of death
- Change of ownership statement: 45 days
- Assessment appeals: Between July 2-September 15
County Tax Collectors
Sutter County Tax Collector
📍 Address: Sutter County Auditor-Controller, 1130 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993
📞 Phone: (530) 822-7123
🌐 Website: www.suttercounty.org/treasurer
Services:
- Pay property taxes
- Tax payment plans
- Tax lien information and payoff
- Tax sale information
Property Tax Payment Dates:
- First installment: Due November 1, delinquent after December 10
- Second installment: Due February 1, delinquent after April 10
Yuba County Tax Collector
📍 Address: Yuba County Treasurer-Tax Collector, 915 Eighth Street, Marysville, CA 95901
📞 Phone: (530) 749-7810
🌐 Website: www.yubacounty.org/tax
Services:
- Property tax payments
- Tax delinquency information
- Payment plans and arrangements
- Tax defaulted property lists
Property Tax Payment Dates:
- First installment: Due November 1, delinquent after December 10
- Second installment: Due February 1, delinquent after April 10
Additional Resources
California State Controller
🌐 Website: www.sco.ca.gov
Service: Property tax postponement program for seniors and disabled persons. May apply to inherited property if heir occupies.
IRS Estate Tax Information
🌐 Website: www.irs.gov/estates-gifts
📞 Phone: (800) 829-1040
Service: Federal estate tax filing requirements, Form 706, estate tax questions.
Franchise Tax Board (California)
🌐 Website: www.ftb.ca.gov
📞 Phone: (800) 852-5711
Service: California state income tax issues for estates and trusts.
Professional Referrals
Yuba-Sutter Bar Association: Referrals to local probate attorneys — (530) 743-7473
California Society of CPAs: Tax professional referrals — www.calcpa.org
California Land Title Association: Title company information — www.clta.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What disclosure requirements apply when selling an inherited house in California?
Executors must complete California's Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS) based on their knowledge of the property. While executors may not know the complete property history, they must disclose conditions discovered during estate administration. See our complete California Seller Disclosure Requirements guide for detailed information on TDS forms, Natural Hazard Disclosures, and probate-specific disclosure considerations.

Written by
YK
Owner & Licensed Real Estate Investor
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