It can be difficult to inherit a property from a family member. It can be a valuable asset that can give you a financial boost. However, it can also come with the emotional burden of losing a loved one. The process of selling an inherited property can be complicated if it is subject to probate.
Probate refers to the legal process through which assets of a deceased person are distributed to their heirs and beneficiaries. Probate is the legal process through which a property owner’s estate must be administered. This involves paying taxes and paying debts. It also includes the distribution of assets including real estate. Depending on the estate’s complexity, the probate process may take up to one year.
What happens to an inherited property if it is placed in probate? How does that affect the sale of the property. Let’s take a closer view.
Understanding Probate
The probate process is a legal process that takes place after the death of a person. If there is no will, the probate court will determine the validity of the will and settle any taxes and debts. It will also distribute assets according to state law or the will.
The probate process will include any property owned by the deceased. The court-appointed executor, or administrator of an estate, takes over the property during probate and is responsible to manage it until the end of the probate process. The executor must determine the value of property and pay any outstanding taxes or debts.
After the taxes and debts are paid, the property may be divided according to state or federal law.
Selling an Inherited Home: The Impact
You may be curious about the impact of probate on the sale of a property you have inherited. It all depends on how advanced the probate process is and what rules your state has.
You may have to wait until the probate process is complete before you sell the property. The executor of an estate will manage the property and ensure that it is secure and maintained during this period.
You may be allowed to sell your property in probate in some states. However, you will need to get court approval. The court will usually require an appraisal of the property’s worth and may ask you for an independent appraisal to verify that the price is fair.
If you have outstanding taxes or debts that are not yet paid, the property will need to be settled before it can be sold. This could be complicated as creditors might have a claim against the property. This could slow down the sale.
Work with a Probate Lawyer
It can be difficult to navigate the probate process, especially if you are trying to sell an inherited asset. A probate attorney can help you navigate the process and avoid costly mistakes.
An attorney who specializes in probate can help you with:
- Understanding the probate process, and your rights as an heir/beneficiary
- To initiate probate, you must file all necessary paperwork
- Resolve outstanding taxes and debts
- Distribution of assets, including the sale and purchase of real estate
- Probate court representation of your interests
A probate attorney can help you feel secure and confident throughout the process.
It can be difficult to sell an inherited property in probate. However, with the right support and guidance, it is possible to navigate the probate process and successfully sell the property.