Administering the estate of a deceased family member is a serious legal responsibility — and can become especially stressful when the executor is not the sole beneficiary.
If the estate owns volatile assets (such as stocks, crypto, or collectibles) that can fluctuate significantly during probate, we generally recommend the executor or personal representative **liquidate these assets as soon as possible.** This helps preserve the value of the estate close to what it was at the date of death.
Why is this important?
As executor, you have a **fiduciary duty** to act in the best interest of all beneficiaries. If you choose not to sell and those assets lose value, you could be held personally liable for failing to act prudently.
**Good news:** Thanks to the IRS “step-up in basis” rule, most assets sold after death carry **little or no capital gains tax**. But be aware — this benefit **only applies to sales made after the date of death.**
Since 1989, **Greenport Financial Advisers** has helped families protect and grow their wealth with personalized guidance. We’re a second-generation, family-owned Registered Investment Advisory firm — and we operate on a fee-only basis, with no commissions.
👉 **Let’s Talk.** Call **Bill or Doug Griffing** at **330.433.1800** to schedule a confidential, no-pressure consultation.