Losing a loved one can be a challenging and emotional process, and dealing with their estate can add to that stress. If you have inherited a property from a deceased family member, selling it can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of selling a deceased person’s house step by step.
Obtain Probate
The first step in the process of selling a deceased person’s house is obtaining probate. Probate is the legal process of validating a deceased person’s will and distributing their assets according to their wishes.
If the deceased person left a will, the executor of the will should apply for probate. However, if the person didn’t leave a will, someone close to the deceased can apply to become an administrator of the estate.
Before selling the property, the executor or administrator must obtain a grant of probate which confirms their authority to manage the estate.
Value the Property
Before selling the property, you must value it. The value of the property will depend on the local property market and the state of the property. You can either hire a professional valuer or get an estimate from a local estate agent.
Appoint a Solicitor
Selling a deceased person’s house can be a legal minefield so it’s a good idea to hire a solicitor. The solicitor will guide you through the legal process of selling the property, including transferring the property to your name and handling the paperwork.
Clear the Property
Before you can sell the property, you need to clear it out. The process of clearing out a deceased person’s property can be emotional, but it’s important to do it before putting the property on the market.
You can either sell or donate the belongings or dispose of them. Be sure to check if there are any items of value that should be sold separately.
Prepare the Property
Once the property is cleared out, you’ll need to prepare it for sale. This includes cleaning the property, making any necessary repairs, and presenting it in the best possible light.
Thorough cleaning, de-cluttering, and staging the property could help increase its value and attract potential buyers.
Choose an Estate Agent
An estate agent will help you market the property and find potential buyers. When choosing an estate agent, look for one that has experience in selling properties in your area.
A good estate agent will also help you set the right price for the property and give you advice on how to prepare the property for viewings.
Accept an Offer
Once a potential buyer makes a formal offer, you’ll need to decide whether to accept it or not. Your estate agent will advise you on whether the offer is reasonable or not.
If you accept the offer, the buyer will pay a deposit and the conveyancing process will start.
Complete the Conveyancing Process
The final step in selling a deceased person’s house is completing the conveyancing process. This involves transferring the ownership of the property to the buyer and paying off any outstanding mortgages or debts.
Your solicitor will handle the entire conveyancing process on your behalf, including drafting the contracts, transferring ownership, and ensuring that all the legal requirements are met.
Conclusion
Selling a deceased person’s house can be complicated and emotional, but with the right guidance and support, the process can be less stressful. Remember to seek professional advice and take your time in deciding the right course of action. Taking time to prepare the property for sale, choosing the right estate agent and marketing it properly can help you achieve a successful sale.