If you’ve inherited a property that you want to sell in Bolton & Bury, you’ll usually need to undergo probate before you can progress. But when is a probate required? The process can be complex, but working with the right estate agent and solicitor can make the probate valuation and sale as smooth and painless as possible.
In this article, we’ll explain what probate is, when it’s required and how to sell a property in Bolton & Bury when probate is required.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal and financial process that deals with any assets (including money, properties or possessions) of a person who has passed away.
The process involves proving that the will is valid and confirming that the executors of the will have the authority to administer the estate of the person who has died. This includes whether you can sell the property.
What is Grant of Probate?
If you are selling a property you have inherited due to someone passing away, you will need to apply for a grant of probate before you can proceed with the sale.
This is a legal document that confirms the executors of the will can start the sale of the property and deal with any other assets of the deceased person.
When is Probate Required?
In England and Wales, probate is usually needed when:
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A person has died and owned property
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A bank or other financial institution asks for a grant of probate
How to Sell a House When Probate is Required
Knowing the value of the property in Bolton & Bury is important when selling a home during probate. The property value will help determine the overall value of the deceased person’s estate. It’s also used to calculate how much inheritance tax must be paid.
When selling a house during probate, make sure you choose a reputable estate agent like Cardwells Estate Agents, to evaluate the property.
Selling a house during probate can be an emotional and challenging time. It’s important to choose an estate agent who understands the sensitivity of your situation and handles it with the utmost care and respect. At Cardwells Estate Agents, we prioritise empathy and professionalism, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.
Arrange a probate valuation
Arranging a probate valuation with Cardwells Estate Agents is very straightforward. We can plan and enact the probate valuation on the residential property for you. It is often helpful if we can meet the executor at the property to ensure that the probate valuation causes little impact on clients often busy lives.
We aim to make ourselves available to you for the probate valuation when you want us to be. Undertaking a probate valuation is a very emotional time for clients, and we certainly do not wish to make it any more difficult for you than it needs to be.
Our team is committed to providing a thorough and fair evaluation of your property, without any pressure. We respect your pace and decisions, offering expert guidance while understanding the emotional weight of parting with a loved one’s home. You can trust us to manage this important task with the dignity and compassion it deserves.
Cardwells Estate Agents will undertake the residential probate valuation and report on your behalf free of charge. We will provide the necessary valuation direct to you, as executor, or your solicitor as per your preference. If you would like to arrange a probate valuation in Bolton the email address is [email protected] (01204 381281) or for a probate valuation in Bury, the email address is [email protected] (0161 761 1215).
Should you require further assistance, we are happy to introduce you to relevant professionals such as solicitors, house clearance companies, auctioneers, Inheritance Tax planners and will writers who will be able to help you.
Speak with a Solicitor
A solicitor will need to apply for a grant of probate before you can sell the property. This process involves:
- Identifying all the deceased person’s assets
- Confirming who will inherit the assets in the will
- Arranging payments of inheritance tax
- Granting probate ready for you to sell the property
Many solicitors can also help progress the sale to a buyer after granting probate. If you can’t find a good solicitor, ask Cardwells Estate Agents for a recommendation and we’ll be happy to put you in touch.
Work With an Estate Agent
Once probate has been granted and you have the go-ahead from the solicitor, you can work with an estate agent to sell the property. When choosing an estate agent, consider how much involvement you need and what qualities you’d prefer.
Expert communication and good availability may be particularly important qualities to consider when choosing an estate agent to progress a probate sale.
An estate agent who is responsive and keeps all parties informed can make the process much smoother and less stressful. Additionally, an agent who is flexible and can accommodate your schedule will ensure that viewings proceed efficiently, even if you have limited availability.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find an estate agent in Bolton & Bury who will handle the sale with professionalism and sensitivity, making the experience as manageable as possible during a difficult time.
Following the probate valuation, should you subsequently wish to sell the property, Cardwells is ideally placed to bring the property to market, hopefully making a difficult situation that bit easier for you and your family.
Are You Selling a House With Probate?
Selling a house with probate can be an emotional period. Choosing the right estate agent to help progress the sale is important to make the situation as painless as possible.
If you’re selling a house with probate in Bolton & Bury, Cardwells Estate Agents are your local property experts, and we’re here to help.
Call today on 01204 381281 or 0161 761 1215. Alternatively, email [email protected] or [email protected] for a chat with our compassionate team about how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Probate Process
What is the Probate Registry, and how does it relate to the probate process?
The Probate Registry is a government body overseeing legal proceedings related to the deceased’s estate administration. In the context of selling a property, it plays a crucial role in validating legal documents, including the grant of probate necessary for property sale.
How do financial institutions, such as banks, impact the probate process?
Financial institutions, including banks, become involved in the probate process when the deceased owns property or has bank accounts. They may request legal documentation, like the grant of probate, to ensure a smooth transfer of assets and settlement of bank accounts during estate administration.
What steps are taken to pay inheritance tax during the probate process?
Paying inheritance tax is a crucial aspect of the probate process when selling a property. Executors must work with solicitors to identify the deceased’s assets, calculate the tax owed, and ensure its payment as part of estate administration before proceeding with the property sale.
Can a property be sold if the deceased owned it jointly with someone else?
If the deceased owned the property jointly, legal considerations regarding joint tenancy or tenancy in common may arise. Executors should consult with solicitors to navigate the complexities and ensure a smooth property sale.
Contact Us
Property experts in this area since 1982, Cardwells are the market leading estate agents in Bolton and Bury. We are here to work for you!
Cardwells Estate Agents Bolton
01204 381281
[email protected]
Cardwells Estate Agents Bury
0161 761 1215
[email protected]
