Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Since title was only in his name, the home is part of his "estate". If he has a will, it should cover who gets the home. If no will, it passes according to the law of "intestate succession". Assuming he has no heirs you did not mention (like a spouse or child), intestate succession provides for his entire estate to go to his mother. Of course she is free to do with it what she wants, once she gets it. "Probate" is the court process used to administer and distribute estates. Sometime probate may be avoided by a simpler procedure. For example, in this case, if the entire estate were worth less than $100,000.00, an affidavit procedure might be available.

I agree with the previous answer, except I'd say "If he has a will or trust......" Many people these days have their property in a living trust, with someone else taking over as trustee upon their death.

You may have to open a probate if there is no trust. If u need help or have more questions feel free to call me at 818 345 0123