Selling a Probate Property: A Practical Guide for Families

Losing a loved one is never easy. Alongside grief, families are often faced with the daunting task of managing their estate. If you have been named as an executor, one of your responsibilities may be selling a probate property - a process that can feel overwhelming during an already stressful time.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of selling a probate property, helping you understand what probate means, the steps involved, and how to make the process as smooth as possible.

What Does Probate Mean?

Probate is the legal process of dealing with someone’s estate after they pass away. It includes managing assets such as money, possessions and property. If the deceased owned a property in their sole name, you will usually need a Grant of Probate (if there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no Will) before you can sell.

This grant gives the executor or administrator the legal authority to sell the property. Without it, the sale cannot be completed.

Can You Sell a Property Before Probate Is Granted?

It is possible to put the property on the market before probate is granted, but the sale cannot be finalised until the grant is issued. Many families choose to list the home early so viewings can take place and buyers can be found, but contracts cannot be exchanged until probate is complete.

On average, probate takes 8–12 weeks, but it can be longer if the estate is complex.

The Steps to Selling a Probate Property

1. Value the Property

Before anything else, the property will need to be valued. This is important both for probate purposes and for inheritance tax calculations. A local estate agent or RICS surveyor can provide a professional valuation. You may wish to get a couple of different opinions.

2. Apply for Probate

The executor (or administrator) will need to apply for probate. This involves submitting the relevant forms, paying any inheritance tax due (or arranging a payment plan), and waiting for the grant to be issued.

3. Prepare the Property for Sale

If the property has been empty for some time, it may need cleaning, small repairs, or even house clearance. Presenting the home well can increase its appeal and help it sell more quickly.

4. Instruct a Solicitor

Selling a probate property involves both probate law and conveyancing. It can make life easier to appoint a firm of solicitors that cover both areas of law. This can save time and reduce stress, ensuring that all legal and administrative steps are handled properly. At Salehs Solicitors, we combine probate expertise with a strong residential property team, so everything is managed under one roof.

5. Market the Property

You can market the home before the grant of probate is received but remember the sale won’t complete until probate has been granted. A realistic price and clear communication with potential buyers are key.

6. Exchange & Completion

Once probate has been granted, the sale can move forward to exchange and completion in the usual way. The proceeds from the sale will form part of the estate and be distributed according to the Will or intestacy rules.

Challenges Executors Often Face

Selling a probate property is rarely straightforward. Common difficulties include:

• Delays in the probate process – leading to frustrated buyers or limiting your buyer pool

• Disputes between family members – about the sale or distribution of assets

• Emotional attachment – clearing and selling a family home can be very hard

• Inheritance tax deadlines – which sometimes fall before a sale has completed

Having supportive, expert legal guidance can make all the difference.

Why Work with a Specialist Probate Solicitor?

Choosing a solicitor with both probate and conveyancing expertise ensures the process is managed efficiently. At Salehs Solicitors, we pride ourselves on offering:

• Partner-led service – direct advice from experienced lawyers

• Compassionate support – we understand the emotional strain families are under

• Transparent fees – so you know where you stand from the outset

• Local knowledge – with strong ties to Didsbury, Manchester, and Cheshire

Legal Advice on Probate Property Sale

Selling a probate property can feel overwhelming, especially when coping with loss. By understanding the process, preparing early, and working with the right professionals, you can ease the stress and move forward with confidence.

If you are dealing with a probate property and need clear, compassionate guidance, Salehs Solicitors are here to help. Our experienced team in Didsbury can manage both the probate process and the property sale, making things simpler at a difficult time.

Call us today on 0161 434 9991 to speak directly with one of our friendly, expert solicitors. Alternatively, you can email us at any time at enquiries@salehs.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website to receive a call back.