What generally occurs if outstanding debts exist on a decedent's property?

When a decedent passes away, their debts do not simply vanish; rather, they typically remain a liability of the estate. The estate is responsible for handling these outstanding debts before any distribution of assets to heirs or beneficiaries occurs.

Selling property to satisfy these debts is a common procedure. This means the executor or administrator of the estate may sell the decedent’s assets—real estate or other valuable items—to ensure that creditors are paid. This can involve liquidating property to generate the necessary funds to cover debts, thus enabling the estate to settle its obligations in a lawful manner before assets can be distributed to heirs.

This concept aligns with the legal principles of estate management, where debts are prioritized and settled as part of the probate process. Therefore, ensuring that any claims against the estate are addressed is an essential responsibility of the estate’s representative, solidifying the accuracy of the selected answer.