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If you’ve been a Realtor for any length of time, you know that people will come to you for advice on all things related to real estate.

At some point in your career, you’re bound to encounter a question about how to handle a situation where the owner of a property, likely a loved one, is no longer mentally and physically able to care for the property and make the necessary decisions about how to handle the property — including when it’s time to sell.

It could be because of a disability or it could be because of a reduced mental capacity associated with advancing age.

Of course, they will think of you.

“What do I do?” they’ll ask.

The answer may be to initiate a Guardianship proceeding on behalf of the disabled adult. The state of Maryland has many resources available to help those involved navigate a Guardianship petition. But be warned, it’s a complex, judicial process, and it will take time and effort to prove that assuming guardianship is the right course of action.

To demonstrate the need will require that the need is certified by two medical professionals. At least one must be a physician, while the other could be a nurse practitioner, psychologist or clinical social worker.

In the end, the court will make the ultimate decision on whether the adult is fit to make decisions regarding their property.

For those interested in learning more about the Adult Guardianship process, download our Guardianship Info Sheet.

Still looking for more? Additional details are available here.