San Diego Probate Specialist

Sell Your Probate Property for 2% Commission

During this difficult time, my goal is to help you navigate the probate process with expertise and care—while keeping more of the estate's value where it belongs.

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Why 2% Makes Sense for Probate Sales

I've spent 40 years building an efficient practice so I can deliver full-service representation at a reduced commission—without compromising the expertise probate transactions require.

Preserve Estate Value

On a $700,000 San Diego property, you save approximately $7,000 compared to a typical 3% listing commission. That's money that goes to heirs, not fees.

Court Process Expertise

I understand California's probate requirements—from court confirmation hearings to the 10-day overbid period. No surprises or delays from inexperience with the process.

Personal Attention

You work directly with me—not a team of assistants. I answer my phone, return every call, and provide the personal attention this process deserves.

24/7 AI Support

Questions at midnight? My AI assistant Peter Probate is available around the clock to answer common probate questions and guide you through the process.

Full-Service Marketing

Professional photography, MLS listing, online syndication, and strategic marketing—everything you would expect from any full-commission listing agent.

Estate Contents Support

Need help with furniture, collectibles, or estate contents? I coordinate with professional movers and estate sale teams to handle everything appropriately.

Commission Comparison

See the difference 2% makes at various price points typical of San Diego probate properties.

Sale Price Typical 3% Commission My 2% Commission Estate Savings
$500,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000
$700,000 $21,000 $14,000 $7,000
$900,000 $27,000 $18,000 $9,000
$1,200,000 $36,000 $24,000 $12,000

Commission calculations shown are for listing side only. Buyer's agent commission, if applicable, is negotiated separately. Every situation is unique—schedule a consultation to discuss your specific circumstances.

What's Included in My 2% Service

Full-service representation with the specialized expertise probate transactions require.

Professional Photography

Your property presented in its best light to maximize buyer interest and offers.

Comprehensive Market Analysis

Accurate pricing supported by detailed comparable sales data—critical for court review.

MLS & Online Marketing

Full exposure on MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, and all major real estate platforms.

Court Documentation Support

All real estate documents prepared for court confirmation with guidance through the hearing process.

Negotiation Expertise

40 years of experience negotiating for sellers—particularly valuable during overbid situations.

Estate Contents Coordination

Connections to professional estate sale companies and movers for furniture and personal property.

Professional Referrals

Access to my network of trusted probate attorneys, CPAs, and estate planning professionals.

Timeline Management

Coordination with court calendars, creditor periods, and closing requirements to keep everything on track.

Fiduciary Duties to the Client

As your real estate agent, I am bound by law and professional ethics to put your interests first.

Whether you are an executor, administrator, or heir, these duties are rooted in trust and require me to act in your best interests throughout the entire transaction. This commitment does not end when the sale closes—my obligation to protect your interests continues.

1 Loyalty

I place your interests above my own. I avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential issues. I will not recommend arrangements that benefit me over you.

2 Confidentiality

Your personal, financial, and negotiation information remains confidential. This obligation continues even after our professional relationship ends.

3 Full Disclosure

I disclose all material facts that could affect your decision—property issues, other offers, market conditions. Complete transparency in all matters.

4 Obedience

I follow your lawful instructions. You control decisions about your property—I am here to advise and execute your wishes within the legal framework.

5 Reasonable Care

I bring 40 years of experience to every decision. You receive well-informed advice and professional diligence throughout the transaction.

6 Accounting

I properly account for all money and property—earnest deposits, commissions, and transaction funds are handled with complete transparency.

Understanding Administrator Responsibilities

If you have been appointed as executor or administrator, California law places important legal responsibilities on you.

Collecting & Protecting Assets

You are responsible for gathering the estate's assets, securing property, and maintaining appropriate insurance coverage until the estate is settled.

Paying Debts & Taxes

All debts and taxes owed by the estate must be paid—including property taxes, income taxes, and any estate taxes that may apply.

Distributing Assets

After debts are satisfied, remaining assets are distributed according to the will or California's laws of intestate succession if there is no will.

Notifying Creditors

You must notify known creditors of the probate and provide them with creditor claim forms. California requires a minimum 4-month creditor period.

Locating Beneficiaries

Due diligence is required to find any missing heirs or beneficiaries who may be entitled to receive assets from the estate.

Court Reporting

The probate court requires regular accounting and reporting on estate activities—including documentation of any real estate transactions.

Important: This Is Not Legal Advice

While I can guide you through the real estate aspects of probate, executor duties involve complex legal requirements. I strongly recommend working with a qualified probate attorney to ensure you fulfill all legal obligations. I am happy to provide referrals to attorneys I have worked with successfully over the years.

Why Families Trust Me with Probate Sales

To quote Bob Seger, you will never "feel like a number." I remember attending a large high school in Brockton, MA and feeling like just a spoke in a great big wheel. I won't allow my clients to feel that way.

I answer all of my phone calls. I return all of my calls. And I have a support system that allows me to give personal attention to every probate client.

"The Harder I Work for YOUR Goals, the Closer I Come to My Own"

40+ Years Negotiating for Sellers
2% Listing Commission
24/7 AI Assistant Access
100% Personal Service

Ready to Discuss Your Situation?

Schedule a consultation to learn more about the 2% Probate program and get answers to your questions about the probate real estate process. No obligation.

About John Matukas: John is a San Diego-based Realtor® specializing in probate real estate with 40+ years of experience negotiating for sellers. He serves families throughout San Diego County including La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, and surrounding communities. Brokered by eXp Realty.

Page last updated: January 2026 | Commission rates and services subject to individual consultation.

REVIEWS

John Talicol

Had a good experience working with John Matukas, no BS or sugar coating, smooth process. I hope and plan on keeping on working together in the future. Thanks Mr. John!

Biz Prep

After working with John for a long time, we can confidently say he is an exceptional real estate professional! What really stands out most is how easy he is to talk to and his responsiveness. We've always felt like a priority, and he has consistently gone above and beyond to answer any questions. Truly appreciate his dedication and highly recommend his services!!!

Soheil Vahedi

I’ve worked with John Matukas several times, and he has always exceeded my expectations. He’s helped me purchase both single-family and multi-family investment properties, and his knowledge and guidance made the process smooth every time. John also does an excellent job helping me lease my vacant units quickly and with reliable tenants. He’s professional, trustworthy, and always goes the extra mile. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for a dedicated and skilled real estate agent.

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John Matukas
John Matukas

Dedicated to Your outcome

+1(323) 377-4961

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