However, as of January 1, 2012, this amount has increased to $150,000.00. See Probate Code §13100.

In order to use the procedure, all of the following must  be true:

1. No probate proceedings have been initiated;
2. 40 days must have elapsed since the decedent’s passing; and,
3. The total gross value of assets is no greater than $150,000.00 not including the following assets:
1. Joint tenancy property;
2. Beneficiary designations;
3. Motor vehicles registered with the DMV;
4. Manufactured homes, campers, etc.
5. Boats

This applies to both real property (houses and land) and personal property (all other property). However, if real real property is involved, a court request is necessary but is far quicker and less expensive than a full probate. Personal property can be collected by a affidavit so long as it meets certain requirements.  See Probate Code §13150.

It should be noted that some websites (including a publisher of well known legal “do it yourself books”) say that real property cannot be collected without a full probate unless it has a value of less than $50,000. However this is incorrect. These sites are seemingly referring to a procedure at Probate Code §13200, not Probate Code §13100 – 13150.