Do You Have to Accept the Role of Executor?

No. Being named as executor in a will is an offer, not an obligation. If you do not want the responsibility, you can decline to serve, and the court will appoint the alternate named in the will or, failing that, an administrator. You can also resign later, though once you have been appointed there is a process to hand off duties properly.

The role carries real work and legal responsibility, so it is reasonable to think it through. That said, many people serve successfully with good professional help. An estate attorney handles the legal filings and a probate-experienced agent handles the home sale, which removes much of the burden. If you are on the fence, understand the duties first before deciding.