When a loved one passes away, their estate must be legally managed before it can be distributed.
This legal process is called probate. The process can become more complex if the deceased owned property, especially in London.
At London Estate Agency, we simplify probate property matters, supporting families, landlords, and investors through every step with compassion, transparency, and legal efficiency.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal procedure of administering someone’s estate after their death.
This includes validating their will, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing assets according to the deceased’s wishes or the law if no will exists.
If the estate includes property, the probate process must be completed before the property can be sold or transferred.
When Is Probate Required?
Probate is generally required when:
The deceased owned property or land in their sole name
There are bank accounts with significant balances
The estate is not jointly owned
The will names specific executors or beneficiaries
If the property was jointly owned, probate may not be necessary, depending on how ownership was structured (joint tenants vs tenants in common).
Who Handles Probate?
If there is a will, the executor (appointed in the will) is responsible for applying for probate.
If there is no will, a close relative must apply for letters of administration, becoming the estate administrator.
These legal representatives are responsible for the following:
Locating and valuing all assets
Settling outstanding debts and liabilities
Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries
Managing or selling property
At London Estate Agency, we guide executors and administrators through these responsibilities, ensuring every legal and practical detail is handled correctly.
How Long Does Probate Take in the UK?
On average, probate takes 6–12 months, depending on the complexity of the estate. Property-related probate can be delayed by:
Unclear ownership
Disputes between beneficiaries
Outstanding debts or tax issues
Difficulty valuing or selling property
Our probate experts streamline the process, from legal paperwork to property valuation and sale, helping families avoid costly delays.
Do You Need a Solicitor for Probate?
While you can handle probate yourself, it is highly recommended to seek professional help, especially when property is involved.
Legal missteps or valuation errors can cause long-term complications.
London Estate Agency provides a full-service probate support package, including:
Probate property valuation
Assistance with inheritance tax reports
Executor guidance
Property clearance and maintenance
Sale or rental management
Probate Property Valuation: What You Need to Know
Probate law requires an accurate valuation of all assets, especially real estate.
HMRC uses this valuation to determine inheritance tax liabilities.
Using an experienced estate agent familiar with the London market is crucial to avoid over- or under-valuation.
We provide:
RICS-compliant probate valuations
Reports acceptable to HMRC
Market value assessments for selling or renting out property
Guidance on minimising inheritance tax where legally possible
Selling a House During Probate
You can market a property during probate but cannot complete the sale until probate is granted. To maximise sale value and avoid issues:
Secure the property (we offer property clearance and security services)
Get a proper valuation
List with an agent who understands probate sales
Be transparent with buyers about the probate timeline
Our team handles everything from listing to legal coordination so that executors and beneficiaries can focus on what matters.
Can You Rent Out a Probate Property?
A probate property can be rented with executor or administrator approval, provided it’s maintained in a safe and habitable condition.
This is especially useful if you’re not ready to sell the property or the market isn’t favourable.
We offer property management and tenant-finding services, ensuring the property generates income legally and efficiently during probate.
How London Estate Agency Can Help You with Probate Property
We specialise in probate properties in London, offering a complete, one-stop solution for executors, administrators, and families. Our team includes:
Probate property experts
Legal compliance officers
RICS-accredited valuers
Sales and lettings negotiators
Maintenance and clearance teams
Our goal is to remove the stress and uncertainty from probate.
We handle everything carefully and professionally—from legal compliance to profitable outcomes.
Why Choose London Estate Agency for Probate Property Support?
✅ In-house legal and valuation services
✅ Fully managed probate sales or lettings
✅ Tenant screening and rent protection included
✅ EPCs and compliance documents arranged
✅ London-wide property clearance and security
✅ Personalised support from a family-run team
We understand that probate is more than a transaction—it’s a personal, often emotional process.
We treat every client with dignity, ensuring estates are managed per the law and the deceased’s wishes.
FAQs About Probate and Property
How much does probate cost in the UK?
Probate fees start at £273 for estates over £5,000, excluding legal, valuation, or estate agent fees.
We offer transparent pricing and packages to suit all estate sizes.
Can you speed up probate?
Yes, by completing all paperwork, valuations, and tax forms promptly.
Our team works with urgency and care to ensure minimal delays.
What if there’s no will?
The estate is distributed according to intestacy laws. We help clients understand these rules and support administrators through the legal process.
Is probate required if there is a will?
Yes, if the estate includes significant assets like property or large bank accounts.
A will simplifies the process, but probate still applies.
Can you sell a property before probate is granted?
You can accept offers, but the transaction cannot be legally completed until the probate grant is issued.
We help clients navigate this timeline with strategic planning.
Let Us Handle Probate While You Focus on What Matters
Probate is complicated—especially when property is involved.
At London Estate Agency, we specialise in guiding clients through every stage of the probate process with care, legal accuracy, and a results-driven approach.
We offer end-to-end probate support in London from valuation to sale or letting.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a smoother probate experience.
