How Much Control Does The Executor Have?

Hi everyone,

State is Massachusetts.

I’m just looking for some input on this.

Long story short - my mother passed away and did not have a will. She had a house in her name and a few other things. She also has a daughter (my step-sister) who has not had any contact in about 20 years. I was named the executor of the estate and I also live in the house.

Unfortunately due to certain circumstances I am going to have to sell the house as I am not in the position to buy my sister out. The fact that she is entitled to anything absolutely blows my mind since either has not had any contact in 20 years. But it is what it is.

When it comes to selling the house, how much say does she have in it? I was under the impression since I was the executor, I would make all the final decisions. I had a realtor come out and give I what I believe is an accurate assessment on the value of the house. However it is now being challenged by her because she believes it is not accurate and is making accusations that I am friends with this realtor. Which I am not - the first time I spoke to him was when I reached out.

So now I am being asked to get a second realtors assessment to essentially back up what the first has said. I really do not want to do this mainly because I do not want to waste someone’s time.

I was also given a cash offer on the house which would avoid going through the hassle of listing it and paying additional fees in the end. And she is not accepting of that and wants it listed.

I’m inclined to believe my lawyer when they say she can do this. But also wanted to see if anyone else might have an opinion on it.

Is this something she can actually have a full say in? Can I really not do anything until she agrees to this?

It’s more frustrating since I’m paying the mortgage throughout all of this and essentially not getting anything out of it, like renting an apartment.

Not that I would let it get to this point as it would not benefit me at all but, would there be any legal course she could take if I were to just let the house get foreclosed?