Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who do you help?
We specialize in helping successor trustees, trustees, executors, professional fiduciaries, and families who are responsible for managing and selling real estate after a death, during incapacity, or as part of a trust or probate process.
When should a trustee contact you?
As early as possible.
Ideally, we meet with trustees before a parent passes or immediately after they step into the role. Early planning helps avoid costly mistakes, delays, and unnecessary stress.
Do you only help with selling the house?
No. Selling the property is often just one piece of the puzzle. We provide full project management, including:
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Property evaluation and value guidance
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Clean-outs and hoarder home coordination
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Repairs, updates, and prep for sale
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Managing vacant or occupied properties
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Coordinating with attorneys, CPAs, and fiduciaries
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Advising trustees on best practices and timelines
What if the house is in rough condition or a hoarder home?
That’s very common in trust and probate situations. We regularly handle:
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Hoarder homes
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Deferred maintenance
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Safety issues
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Code concerns
We coordinate professional clean-out crews, contractors, and vendors so the trustee doesn’t have to manage it alone.
What if there are squatters or unwanted occupants in the property?
We can help guide trustees through the proper next steps and connect them with a trusted landlord/eviction attorney. Trustees should never attempt to handle these situations themselves without legal guidance.
What if my parents are still alive but need help planning?
We often meet with families before a transition occurs. If parents are downsizing, relocating, or experiencing health challenges, we can:
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Help plan future housing needs
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Coordinate with a senior home locator to find appropriate living arrangements
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Provide guidance on preparing or preserving the property
Do you work with professional fiduciaries and attorneys?
Yes. A large portion of our work comes from professional fiduciaries, estate attorneys, and CPAs. We act as the real estate and project management arm, keeping all parties informed and protecting the beneficiaries’ best interests.
How do you protect the trustee and beneficiaries?
Trustees have a legal duty to act in the best interest of beneficiaries. We:
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Provide market-supported pricing guidance
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Document recommendations
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Present pros and cons of offers
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Coordinate timelines transparently
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Help avoid unnecessary risk or liability
Our role is advisory and protective, not sales-driven.
Do trustees pay anything upfront?
No. Most services are coordinated and paid through escrow at closing, when possible. We clearly explain costs ahead of time so trustees can make informed decisions.
Are you certified in probate and trust sales?
Yes. I am a Certified Probate & Trust Specialist and have extensive experience working within California trust and probate guidelines.
What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve Sonoma County and the greater Bay Area.
How do we get started?
The first step is a no-pressure consultation. We review:
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The trust or probate situation
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Property condition
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Timeline and goals
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Who else is involved (attorney, fiduciary, family)
From there, we create a clear plan so you’re not guessing what to do next.
Contact Information
Daniel Cronin | REALTOR®
Certified Probate & Trust Specialist
Relocation Specialist
W Real Estate – Cronin Team
DRE# 02069254 | 707-543-6483
dannymcroninrealtor@gmail.com
SonomaEstateServices.com
