Inheriting a property can bring mixed emotions. Alongside the personal side of things, there are practical and legal considerations that are important to understand early on.

You may need probate before doing anything; if the property was owned solely by the person who passed away, you will usually need probate before you can sell or transfer it, even if the property is left to you in a will.

There could be tax implications; inheritance tax may be due depending on the value of the estate, and if you later sell the property, capital gains tax could also apply, particularly if the property increases in value or was not your main residence.

Ongoing costs do not stop; council tax, insurance, utilities, and maintenance still need to be covered while the property is in your name or the estate’s name. Empty properties can also require specialist insurance.

Decide what you want to do early; ask yourself whether you plan to sell the property, rent it out, or keep it for personal use. Each option has different legal, financial, and tax considerations, so getting advice early can save time and money later.

Joint ownership can complicate things; if the property has multiple beneficiaries, everyone must agree on what happens next. Disagreements can delay sales and increase costs.

Inheriting a property is not just a legal process, it is often an emotional one too. Taking things step by step and getting the right guidance can make it far more manageable.

Disclaimer: We are not probate solicitors and this article does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on inherited property, probate, or related legal matters, you should seek advice from a qualified solicitor. Likewise, we are not tax specialists and cannot advise on taxation matters, including inheritance tax or capital gains tax.