For a simple estate with a valid will, no inheritance tax to pay and no disputes, six to nine months is common. Where inheritance tax is due, there is a property to sell, or any complication arises, twelve months or more is realistic. The grant of probate itself generally takes four to sixteen weeks to come through once you apply.
The usual causes of delay are inheritance tax that has to be calculated and paid before the grant is issued, a property that needs valuing or selling, missing or unclear paperwork, and disagreement between beneficiaries.
You can get the property valued, choose a solicitor and even put it on the market before the grant arrives, but the sale can only legally complete once probate is granted. That is why many executors line up a cash buyer in advance, ready to move the moment the grant comes through.
Agree a fair offer while probate is progressing, then complete in as little as seven days the moment the grant arrives.
This is general information and not legal, tax or financial advice. Every estate and situation is different, so check with the estate's solicitor or a qualified professional before making decisions.
A straightforward estate usually takes 6 to 12 months to settle fully. The grant of probate itself typically takes 4 to 16 weeks after you apply, and longer if inheritance tax is due.
You can market it and agree a sale, but you can only complete once the grant is issued. A cash buyer can be ready to complete in days once that happens.
Inheritance tax, a property to sell, missing paperwork, or a dispute between beneficiaries are the usual causes.
Free, no obligation, and completion in as little as 7 days.
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