Assets Probate Inventory

Comprehensive Inventories for Probate Success with Probate Inventory

In the probate process, a complete and accurate inventory of the estate’s assets is a legal cornerstone, mandated under Texas Estates Code § 309. This inventory ensures that all personal property is identified, valued, and documented for court approval, fair distribution to heirs, and compliance with fiduciary duties. At DBD Estate Services, our Probate Inventory service focuses on cataloging personal assets—furniture, jewelry, art, collectables, boats, and vehicles—delivering a meticulous record that supports estate attorneys in navigating this critical step. While real estate is typically handled by licensed Realtors and financial assets by attorneys or certified financial professionals, we specialize in the tangible items that often hold both sentimental and monetary value, frequently uncovering hidden treasures that transform the estate’s outcome.

The importance of a detailed probate inventory cannot be overstated. Texas law requires executors to file an inventory and appraisement within 90 days of appointment (or 180 days with court extension), detailing all property under their control. According to legal experts, this document must be specific—listing items like “antique dining table” rather than vague terms like “furniture”—to meet court standards and avoid challenges from heirs or creditors. Our inventories have revealed surprises, such as a forgotten safe deposit box hidden inside a jewelry box or a water and aggregate leases in a vehicle’s glove compartment, assets the attorney was unaware of. These discoveries not only increase the estate’s value but also protect you from allegations of negligence.

Our process begins with an on-site assessment, where our trained professionals evaluate the property’s contents. Using high-resolution photography, we document each item—capturing a 19th-century painting, a collection of rare coins, or a vintage boat—creating a visual record that complements our written catalog. This dual documentation ensures clarity and serves as evidence in court. Our attention to detail turns chaos into order, providing a foundation for subsequent services like appraisal or disposition.

Once the inventory is complete, we compile a comprehensive report tailored to Texas probate requirements. This document lists each item, notes its condition, and flags potential value (e.g., “possible antique chair” for appraisal). The report is designed for court submission, meeting the “reasonably accurate” standard. In a recent project, our inventory helped an attorney secure court approval within 60 days, avoiding a penalty for late filing. This efficiency saves you time and reinforces your credibility with clients and the judiciary.

We understand the pressures estate attorneys face—balancing legal deadlines, heir disputes, and the emotional weight of probate. Sourcing and cataloging personal assets can be daunting, especially when properties are neglected or cluttered. DBD Extate Services takes this burden off your shoulders, delivering a professional inventory that integrates with our broader services. For instance, a flagged collectable might trigger our Appraisal Coordination, while a damaged boat could lead to Maintenance and Repair. This holistic approach reduces oversight risks that incomplete inventories can delay proceedings or invite litigation.

The benefits of our Probate Inventory service extend to your clients as well. Heirs gain clarity on their inheritance, reducing disputes over unlisted items, while the estate’s value is maximized through the identification of overlooked assets. In one instance, we cataloged a collection of ceramics which we were able to identify as unique pieces by a sought-after artist, a find that delighted heirs and strengthened the attorney’s case. Our process respects the decedent’s legacy, handling items with care and discretion, which resonates with families navigating grief. For you, the attorney, our court-ready reports provide a defensible record, shielding you from liability and streamlining your workflow. Whether dealing with a modest home or a complex estate, we deliver precision that sets the stage for a successful probate.

At DBD Estate Services, we’re committed to supporting estate attorneys with expertise and efficiency. Our Probate Inventory service is the critical first step in unlocking the full potential of an estate’s personal assets, ensuring compliance, and uncovering hidden value. We take pride in our detailed assessments, professional documentation, and seamless integration with your legal strategy.

Contact us today to schedule your next inventory and experience how we can enhance your probate process.