Does executor of the estate have to sign the new homeowners insurance policy with the beneficiaries?

As long as the estate is active and has not been probated, the beneficiaries have no interest in the home yet. Another issue here is that if no one is living in the home you cannot buy a homeowners policy on the home. Once the owner died the homeowners insurance is only good for 90 days after the home was no longer occupied, whether or not you are paying for the homeowners policy. The best you will get if it burns is a return of part of your premium. What you need to get is a Dwelling Fire policy and make sure it is listed as vacant. The answer to your question is whoever legally owns the home should sign the application. Once the estate is probated the home transfers ownership them the beneficiaries sign a new application for a homeowners application. To qualify for the homeowners policy the owner and occupant must be the same person or persons.