Quick answer: a full grant of Letters is always required first. Beyond that, most straightforward sales don't need a separate court hearing — but minors, missing powers of sale, or complications usually do. Run your own numbers in the Pennsylvania probate real estate sale calculator.
Letters first, always
A power of sale doesn't remove that requirement
Even when the will grants a clear power of sale, title companies still expect Letters as proof of authority. The power of sale mainly determines whether Orphans' Court needs to weigh in on the sale itself, not whether Letters are needed at all.
When Orphans' Court gets involved beyond Letters
A sale becomes more complex, and typically needs Orphans' Court approval, when an heir is a minor or otherwise cannot consent, when the will doesn't grant a specific power of sale, or when the transaction is legally complicated in some other way.
No transfer-on-death shortcut exists
As of 2026, Pennsylvania doesn't recognize transfer-on-death deeds or Lady Bird deeds, unlike a number of other states — a solely titled house always passes through the estate rather than automatically to a named beneficiary.
Clearing title means putting it on the record
Title clears by recording either the deed to the new owners or the representative's documented authority to sell — the public record needs to show clearly how ownership passed.
A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.
Whether Letters are granted in Philadelphia, Allegheny, or Montgomery County, the underlying requirement is the same statewide.