What Forms Are Needed for a Trust Sale in Los Angeles County?

To sell a property held in a trust in Los Angeles County, the trustee typically needs to prepare and submit key documents such as the Certification of Trust, a copy of the Trust Agreement (if required), the Trustee’s Affidavit (California Probate Code §18100.5), Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR), and the standard seller disclosure forms used in California real estate transactions. Additional escrow and title forms may also apply depending on the situation.

What Is a Trust Sale?

A trust sale occurs when a property is sold by a trustee, typically after the trust creator has passed away. Unlike a probate sale, trust sales are generally quicker and do not require court confirmation unless otherwise specified in the trust document.

Trusts are common in Los Angeles County estate planning because they allow families to avoid probate and keep matters more private. Still, certain legal documents are required to validate the trustee’s authority to sell.

Required Documents for a Trust Sale in Los Angeles County

Below is a breakdown of the most common forms you'll need:

1. Certification of Trust

Summarizes key provisions of the trust without disclosing private details.
Confirms that the trustee has authority to act.
Required by escrow and title to verify the seller’s legal standing.

2. Trustee’s Affidavit (California Probate Code §18100.5)

A sworn statement by the trustee affirming the trust is valid and in effect.
Often paired with the Certification of Trust.

3. Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR)

Required by the county assessor to update tax records after a sale.
Must be filed at closing.
Helps determine if the property qualifies for tax reassessment exemptions.

4. Standard Seller Disclosures (TDS, AVID, SPQ, etc.)

Trustees are still expected to provide seller disclosures in most cases:

TDS (Transfer Disclosure Statement) – Even if limited knowledge is available.
AVID (Agent Visual Inspection Disclosure) – Completed by the listing agent.
SPQ (Seller Property Questionnaire) – May be partially waived if the trustee did not live in the home.

5. Trust Agreement (Partial or Full)

Some buyers or title companies may request a redacted or full version of the trust for additional verification.
If the Certification of Trust is detailed enough, this may be waived.

Additional Forms Required by Escrow or Title Companies

Escrow officers in Los Angeles County may also request:

Statement of Information for each trustee
Grant Deed signed by the trustee
Death Certificate(s) of the trustor(s) if they are deceased
IRS Form W-9 for tax reporting
Trust Termination documents (if applicable)

Do All Trustees Have to Sign?

Yes. If multiple trustees are named in the trust, all acting trustees generally need to sign listing and escrow paperwork unless the trust explicitly allows one trustee to act alone.

What About Court Involvement?

In most cases, trust sales avoid probate court. However, court involvement may be necessary if:

There is a dispute among beneficiaries
The trust lacks clarity or conflicts with other estate planning documents
A successor trustee needs to be appointed

Local Tip for Los Angeles County Sellers

If you're selling a property in a trust, always check with an escrow officer who is experienced with trust sales in Los Angeles County. Each case is unique, and having a team that understands how to properly document the sale is critical to avoid delays.

If you're in Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, or anywhere in Los Angeles County, our probate and trust real estate specialists can guide you every step of the way.

Contact us here for trust sale support →