How do I start the process of homesteading a house

[Celvester]

Mom died in 2002.....I lived in and took care of her. all the utilities etc. are still in her name. My exhusband ruined my credit..Tax office sent application for homestead renewal .In her will she left house to me&sister. (who is homesteading her home)Will was not probated(didn't know we had to) How do I start the process of getting "my house" in order. I know I might owe back taxes
but someone said "don't go to the accessors right off the bat" I don't know which end is up. Can't afford a lawyer......living off SS
Any help would be greatly appreciated.......

[WRTN]

You might try checking with your county Trustee. They may function under a different label name but more or less function as the county comptroller. That is who you would pay back taxes to. At least you bring your taxes up to date or work out a payment plan.

The tax assessor eventually will be along with periodic assessment updates to your property. No use calling him to put your place on his radar screen.

Eventually, your will, may have to be probated so the deed can be updated and changed over to you and your sister's name or if she agrees to let you have it, your name.

In the mean time is it best to just keep things going and up to date. This will give establish a track record of you paying the property taxes and other private property owner obligations.

If your sister agrees to give you her share of the property, she can sign a quit claim deed giving you all ownership. You may need to have an attorney do this unless you know can write the new deed and quit claim deed. I would think an attorney could do this for you for under $500 and likely much less. Call around and ask.