Understanding Probate and Property Sales 🏡⚖️
Dealing with probate can be overwhelming, especially when a property is involved. One of the most common questions we’re asked is whether you should put the house on the market straight away. Our advice? No—not until probate has been granted.
Why Wait?
When someone passes away, their estate must go through probate before any assets, including property, can be sold. While the official guidance suggests probate takes around 16 weeks, in reality, it can often take much longer—sometimes several months.
The risk of listing too soon? Buyers can be put off by the uncertainty. While some may be willing to wait, many won’t want the unpredictability of a long process. A delayed sale could lead to frustration, price reductions, or even the buyer pulling out altogether.
What You Should Do Early On 📝
One key step you should take as soon as possible is getting a professional valuation. This is essential for inheritance tax calculations and can also help speed up the probate process.
However, when it comes to actually selling the property, waiting until probate is granted will make the sale much smoother and more attractive to buyers.
Applying for Probate: Your Options ⚖️
You have two choices when applying for probate:
✅ Doing it Yourself – This involves completing the necessary paperwork, submitting tax forms, and filing with the Probate Registry. It’s possible, especially for straightforward estates, and the cost is relatively low—around £273 plus any additional document fees. However, it does require time, patience, and a good understanding of the process.
✅ Using a Solicitor – If the estate is complex, involves property, or there are family disputes, a solicitor can handle everything for you. While the cost varies (typically between £1,500 - £5,000), many find the peace of mind and reduced stress worth the expense.
Need Advice? We’re Here to Help 💬
If you’re dealing with probate and need guidance on valuations or managing the sale, we’re here to support you. Get in touch, and we’ll help you navigate every step of the process with expert advice and care.
🎥 Watch the video to learn more about handling probate property sales smoothly.