Estate & Transition
Real Estate.
Handled With Respect.
Losing a loved one — or helping an aging parent move into care — is one of the most emotionally demanding experiences a family can face. When real estate is part of the picture, you deserve a professional who understands both the market and the human side of the situation.
No pressure. No rush. Just honest guidance.
✓ Work With Matthew If:
- A parent or family member has passed away and you need to sell or manage the estate property
- You're an executor or estate trustee and need professional real estate guidance
- A loved one is moving into a retirement home or long-term care and the family home needs to be sold
- Multiple siblings or beneficiaries need to agree on a sale and you need a neutral professional
- You need a market valuation for probate, estate equalization, or tax purposes
- The property needs updating before it can go to market and you need guidance on what's worth doing
- You want to understand your options before the estate is settled
✗ Probably Not the Right Fit If:
- You're selling in a standard situation — see the Sellers page
- You're going through a divorce or separation — see the Separation page
- You're an investor looking for acquisitions — see the Investors page
- You need a certified appraisal for probate court (I can refer you to one)
Real Estate Transaction
Whether you've recently lost a parent, are helping a family member transition into long-term care, or are trying to settle an estate with multiple beneficiaries involved — the real estate piece of the puzzle is often the largest financial asset on the table, and one of the most emotionally charged decisions your family will make.
I'm Matthew Gizzie — a real estate professional with over 10 years of experience serving York Region, Simcoe County, and the Greater Toronto Area. I work with families navigating estate sales and senior transitions regularly, and I understand that this is not a typical listing. It's personal. It takes time. And it deserves to be handled with a level of care that most realtors don't bring to the process.
My role is to take the real estate weight off your family's shoulders — to give you honest, straightforward guidance on what the property is worth, what it needs, and how to move forward in a way that protects the estate and respects everyone involved. I work with executors, estate trustees, and family members directly — and I'm comfortable coordinating with estate lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors when needed.
There's No Rush.
One of the most common things I hear from families is: "We don't know how long we have, or what order to do things in." That's okay. A conversation costs nothing. We'll figure out the right next step together — whether the property goes to market next month or next year.
Ready to talk through your situation? Book a confidential call →
Every Situation Is Different
Here are the most common ways I assist families dealing with estate real estate and senior transitions in York Region and Simcoe County:
Estate Property Sales
When a loved one passes away, selling the family home is often the most significant financial decision the estate will make. I manage the entire process — from initial assessment and preparing the property to listing, offers, and closing — keeping the executor and beneficiaries informed at every step.
See Seller Services →Senior Transitions — Moving Into Care
When a parent or family member moves into a retirement residence or long-term care facility, the family home often needs to be sold to fund their care or as part of estate planning. I help families navigate this transition thoughtfully — working around care placement timelines and family schedules.
Market Valuations for Probate & Estate Planning
Estate lawyers, financial advisors, and accountants often need a current market value opinion on a property as part of the estate settlement process. I provide professional written market assessments based on current comparable sales — delivered in a format your legal and financial team can use.
Get a Free Home Evaluation →Working With Executors & Estate Trustees
If you've been named the executor of an estate, you have a legal responsibility to manage the sale of property in the best interest of the beneficiaries. I understand that role and I make it easier — providing documentation, professional guidance, and a smooth transaction you can feel confident about.
Managing Multiple Beneficiaries
When several siblings or family members are involved, things can get complicated quickly. I act as a neutral, professional point of contact — keeping everyone informed and focused on the goal, without getting drawn into family dynamics. My job is to make the real estate process as smooth and transparent as possible.
Property Preparation & Staging Guidance
Estate homes often need some work before going to market — decluttering, cleaning, cosmetic updates, or more significant repairs. I'll walk through the property with you and give you honest, practical advice on what's worth investing in and what to leave as-is. I also have trusted trades and service providers I can connect you with.
Not sure where to start? Reach out — no obligation, no rush →
$10,000+ in Seller Services
When you list an estate property with Matthew, the estate receives a full suite of professional services at no additional cost. Every dollar of value preserved matters — especially when multiple beneficiaries are involved.
Professional Marketing Suite
HD photography, drone footage, 3D virtual tour, floor plans, and professionally designed marketing materials. Your home will make the strongest possible first impression online and in-person.
Staging Consultation & Assistance
Expert staging advice and coordination so the home shows beautifully to buyers — maximizing appeal without over-investing in a property the estate is selling.
Yard & Curb Appeal Clean-Up
First impressions matter at the street. Matthew covers landscaping, lawn care, or minor outdoor improvements to ensure the property looks its best from the moment buyers arrive.
Home Improvement Allowance
Fresh paint, minor repairs, fixture updates — Matthew covers the cost of small improvements that meaningfully increase buyer appeal and protect the estate's sale price.
Moving Cost Coverage*
When a family member sells the estate property and purchases their next home through Matthew, he covers up to $5,000 in moving costs — making the transition as seamless as possible.
*Applies when selling and buying with Matthew.
Need Something Specific?
Every estate is different. If there's something the property needs that isn't listed here — whether it's a specific trade, a service, or extra coordination — reach out and Matthew will work with you to find a solution.
Ask About Your Situation →* Service values are approximate and may vary. Moving cost coverage applies when both selling and buying through Matthew Gizzie. Details provided in writing before any agreement is signed. Full details on the Sellers page →
At Your Family's Pace
Every estate situation is different. Here's how I typically work with families from the first conversation through to a successful sale.
Confidential Family Consultation
We start with a private conversation — just you, your family members if you'd like, and me. No pitch, no pressure. I learn about your timeline, the property, who's involved in the decision, and what a good outcome looks like for your family.
Property Assessment & Market Valuation
I'll visit the property, assess its condition, and analyze recent comparable sales in the area to give you a clear, honest picture of what it's worth in today's market. If your estate lawyer or accountant needs a written valuation, I'll prepare that documentation for them.
Preparing the Property
I'll walk through what the home needs — whether it's a deep clean and minor cosmetic work, or more significant updates. I'll give you my honest recommendation on what will make a meaningful difference to buyers and what's not worth spending on. I can coordinate with trusted local trades to get it done efficiently.
Listing, Marketing & Offers
When the property is ready, I manage everything — professional photography, listing strategy, showings, and offer negotiations. I keep all family members and the executor informed throughout, and I present all offers clearly so decisions can be made with confidence.
Closing & What Comes Next
I coordinate with lawyers, the estate trustee, and any other parties to ensure a smooth closing. If any family members need help finding their next home — whether buying or renting — I'm here for that too, including up to $4,750 in buyer perks per person.
No contracts. No rush. Just honest guidance.
Have a legal or care-placement deadline? Call me directly →
For Sale
One of the most common questions I get from executors and families is: "The house is full of 40 years of belongings — where do we even start?" Here is how I guide families through the process, step by step.
Step 1 — Walk-Through Assessment
Before anything else, I visit the home with you. We identify what's there, what condition it's in, and what the priorities are. This sets a realistic picture before any money is spent or decisions are made.
Step 2 — Estate Sale / Content Removal
Personal belongings need to be sorted before any work begins. I can connect you with estate sale professionals and junk removal services that deal specifically with estate situations — experienced, respectful, and efficient.
Step 3 — Deep Clean & Minor Repairs
Most estate homes benefit significantly from a professional deep clean and minor cosmetic work — fresh paint in neutral tones, fixture updates, and addressing any obvious deferred maintenance. I'll tell you what buyers in York Region actually respond to, so you don't over-invest.
Step 4 — Staging Guidance
Once the home is clean and cleared, I'll advise on whether staging makes sense based on the property and the market. In many cases, a well-prepared and clean estate home sells effectively with minimal staging investment.
Step 5 — Professional Photography & Listing
Every home I list is photographed professionally. The first impression buyers form is online — quality photography and a well-written listing are non-negotiable. I manage this entirely.
Complimentary · No obligation · York Region & Simcoe County
When It Matters Most
Deep Local Market Knowledge
I've been working in York Region for over 10 years. I know what homes are actually selling for in Newmarket, Aurora, Richmond Hill, Georgina, Markham, East Gwillimbury, and surrounding communities — not just what's listed, but what's closing. That knowledge directly protects the value of the estate.
Patient, Pressure-Free Approach
I don't push families to list before they're ready. My job is to make sure you have the information you need, when you need it — and that every decision is made with clarity. If the family needs six months to sort through the home before listing, that's fine with me.
Neutral When Families Aren't
When multiple siblings or beneficiaries are involved, emotions and opinions can run high. I've navigated these dynamics before. I remain professional and focused on the outcome — keeping communication clear and the process moving forward without getting caught in family conflict.
Experience With Estate Complexity
Estate transactions often involve coordination with estate lawyers, accountants, trustees, and sometimes courts. I understand these moving parts and how to work within them — providing the documentation, timelines, and professional communication that make everyone's job easier.
A Trusted Network
Getting an estate property ready for market often requires more than a realtor. I've built relationships with estate sale specialists, clean-out crews, painters, cleaners, stagers, and tradespeople who work specifically with estate situations — experienced, respectful, and reasonably priced.
Honest, Not Inflated
Some realtors tell families what they want to hear to win the listing. I give you an honest picture of what the property is worth and what it needs. The estate gets more value from a realistic strategy than an inflated list price that sits on the market and attracts lowball offers.
Answered Clearly
Not necessarily, but it depends on your specific situation. In Ontario, the executor of an estate may be able to list and accept an offer on a property before probate is granted — with closing coordinated around the grant. Every estate is different. I work closely with your estate lawyer to ensure the timing and sequence of the sale aligns with the legal requirements of the estate. I strongly recommend consulting your lawyer early in the process.
Family disagreements over estate property are more common than most people realize. My role is to give everyone the same clear, honest market data — so decisions are based on facts, not assumptions or emotions. An independent property assessment often helps bring family members to agreement. If the dispute is significant, your estate lawyer may need to be involved, but in many cases, clear information resolves the conflict on its own.
No. Call me first. I'll walk through the property with you in whatever state it's in and give you a realistic picture of what it's worth and what makes sense to do before listing. In most cases, I can connect you with the right services — estate sale companies, donation pick-up, and clean-out crews who work specifically with estate situations. You don't need to figure this out before reaching out.
In most estate situations, the answer is no — or at least, not significantly. Buyers of estate properties often factor in updates themselves and price accordingly. Strategic cosmetic work — fresh paint, deep cleaning, minor repairs — typically offers the best return on investment. I'll walk through the property with you and give you honest, specific guidance on what's worth doing and what isn't for your market and price point.
Yes. I can provide a professional written market value opinion based on current comparable sales — formatted in a way that's useful for estate lawyers and accountants working through equalization, estate tax, or probate matters. Note that some legal proceedings may require a certified appraisal from a licensed appraiser rather than a realtor's market opinion — I'll advise you on which is appropriate for your situation and can refer you to a trusted appraiser if needed.
I serve York Region including Newmarket, Aurora, Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan, Georgina, East Gwillimbury, King, and Bradford West Gwillimbury, as well as Simcoe County including Barrie, Innisfil, and surrounding areas.
Some estate properties need more work than others. In these situations, I help the executor and family weigh the options: invest in repairs to maximize sale price, sell as-is to a conventional buyer at a lower price point, or sell to an investor or developer depending on the property. I'll give you an honest breakdown of each path so you can make the right decision for the estate.
Yes. If any family members — including the surviving spouse or adult children who were living in the home — need help finding new housing, I offer a full buyer service including up to $4,750 in perks per person. If they're first-time buyers, see my First-Time Buyer Guide for programs they may qualify for.
Find Your Next Home
If family members — a surviving spouse, adult children, or others — need to purchase a new home as part of this transition, every buyer who works with Matthew receives up to $4,750 in perks per person.
Free Home Inspection
Up to $600 — choose your own inspector or use a trusted partner.
Free Appraisal
Up to $350 — know exactly what the property is worth before you buy.
Free 12-Month Home Warranty
$500+ value — coverage for major systems and appliances for a full year.
Free Deep Clean + Moving Costs
Professional cleaning ($300+) and up to $3,000 in moving expenses — per person.
* Buyer perks apply per person when purchasing through Matthew Gizzie. Some conditions apply. Details provided in writing before any agreement is signed. Full details on the Buyers page →
Let's Talk Through
Your Family's Situation.
There's no obligation, no rush, and no pressure. If your family is navigating an estate sale or a senior transition and you have real estate questions, reach out. I'll give you straight answers and help you understand your options clearly.
Get a Confidential ConsultationNo contracts. No rush. Just honest guidance.
