What Are Probate Properties?

If you’ve recently lost a loved one, you may have come across the term “probate property.” But what exactly does it mean, and what should you do if you find yourself responsible for one? At R&B Property Group, we help families and beneficiaries navigate the complex world of probate property, from understanding the process to finding the best way to sell.

Understanding Probate

When someone passes away, everything they own—known as their estate—must be dealt with legally before it can be passed on to beneficiaries. This legal process is called probate.

The estate often includes money, possessions, and, in many cases, property. A probate property is simply a house or flat that forms part of the estate and needs to be transferred or sold as part of the probate process.

Why Are Probate Properties Different?

Unlike a regular property sale, probate properties come with unique challenges:

Legal requirements – Probate must be granted before the property can be sold.
Emotional connection – Beneficiaries are often selling a loved one’s home, which can be an emotional and difficult decision.
Condition of the property – Many probate properties need updating or repairs, which can make them harder to sell on the open market.

Do You Inherit a Probate Property Automatically?

If you are named in the will as a beneficiary, the probate property will eventually transfer to you. However, the executor of the will is responsible for handling the legal process first. If there is no will, the rules of intestacy decide who inherits the estate.

Selling a Probate Property

For many beneficiaries, selling a probate property is the most practical option. However, traditional estate agent sales can be slow, especially if the property is in poor condition or stuck in a property chain.

That’s where R&B Property Group can help. We specialise in a strategy called Assisted Sales where we guarantee a fix fee with you in advance and ensure all the stress of selling it taken away.

Common Questions About Probate Properties

1. Can you sell a house before probate is granted?

No, probate must be completed before the property can legally change ownership.

2. How long does it take to sell a probate property?

The probate process itself can take several months, and traditional sales can add more time.

3. Do probate properties sell for less?

Not always. However, buyers may expect a discount if the property requires renovation or modernisation.

Key Takeaways

A probate property is a house or flat that forms part of a deceased person’s estate.
The property cannot be sold until probate is granted.
Selling can be complicated, but working with probate property specialists helps make the process much less stressful.

Need Help With a Probate Property?

If you’ve inherited a property and don’t know where to start, R&B Property Group is here to guide you. We can you sell the property by maximising the return you receive, saving you time, stress, and estate agent fees.