Dear Jan:

Our mother has had to move out of her home and I am her power of attorney. We are getting ready to sell the house. Is there anything special I need to know?

SH

Dear SH:

Good job on thinking ahead! I have worked with many power of attorneys (POAs) over the years, as well as trustees for estates. Typically, I ask the POA or trustee to scan a copy of the document giving them signing power to me as soon as we know we will be working together. I then send that document to my favorite escrow officer who runs it past her title department. They know what to look for in the document.

Sometimes through the process, they discover that someone has died, and they ask for copies of the death certificate of that person. Sometimes the family members must find said certificate, which can take time, therefore it is smart to plan ahead like you are. Once the home has an offer, escrow will be opened. Escrow will order a title policy.

Things will go much smoother due to your steps.

Best wishes.

Jan