Big Picture Timeline
- Probate often takes 9 months to 1.5 years (or longer) in San Diego
- Real estate can speed up or slow down the process depending on occupancy, title issues, liens, property condition, and whether the sale requires court confirmation
Common Hidden Delay: Time Between Death and Filing Probate
PR-195 timeline starts with "After Death," but many families do not file immediately. Weeks or months may pass before a petition is filed due to grief, document gathering, or indecision. During this gap, property condition can decline, insurance may lapse, and carrying costs add up.
What To Do Pre-Filing
- Secure the property, prevent avoidable damage
- Confirm insurance status and vacancy requirements
- Keep utilities on
- Take photos for documentation
- Gather key documents (mortgage, HOA, tax bills, leases)
- Get an early market value opinion
This is general information, not legal advice. Probate rules can vary based on the estate, whether there is a will, whether the case is contested, and whether the property is held in a trust.