In New York, Surrogate's Court is the court that handles all matters related to the estates of people who have passed away. That includes proving a will is valid (probate), appointing an administrator when there is no will, supervising executors and administrators, and resolving disputes among heirs. Any real estate that was owned by the deceased falls under this court's jurisdiction until the estate is properly settled.
What this means for selling is straightforward — before an executor or administrator can legally sell or transfer a property, they generally need official authority from the court in the form of Letters Testamentary (when there is a will) or Letters of Administration (when there is not). Getting these documents takes time and paperwork, but it is a manageable process, and once those letters are in hand the sale can move forward like any other real estate transaction. Sam can help you understand where you are in that timeline and what to expect next.