A personal representative is handling a death in the family, often while working a full-time job. The people who do well with probate properties are the ones who are patient, specific and easy to say no to.
Ground rules
- Write, don’t call. A letter can be read when they’re ready. Cold calls and texts can also break federal telemarketing rules, so we don’t provide phone numbers.
- Wait a few weeks after the filing. The first weeks are funerals and paperwork.
- Lead with help, not price. Cleanouts, repairs, out-of-state logistics and timing are the real problems.
- Mail no more than three letters over a few months, and stop the moment anyone asks.
- Never mention the death in the envelope or on a postcard others can read.
- Attorneys must follow Minnesota Rule of Professional Conduct 7.3 on solicitation.
A sample first letter
Dear [Name],
I’m sorry for your family’s loss. I’m writing because I work with families who are settling an estate that includes a house in [City]. Some want to sell as-is without cleaning out or repairing it; others just want to know their options.
If that would help, I’m glad to talk whenever you’re ready, with no obligation. If not, please disregard this letter and accept my condolences.
[Your name, phone, email]
Out-of-state personal representatives
A personal representative who lives out of state often can’t easily manage a cleanout, contractors and showings from a distance. Our filings flag them, so you can mention exactly that kind of help.