Inheriting a property? - Richard Kendall Estate Agents

Inheriting a property? Here’s everything you need to know.

Inheriting property can be both a blessing and a challenge. Whether it's a cherished family home or an unexpected asset, navigating the legal, financial, and emotional aspects requires careful consideration. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the essentials when inheriting property.

The probate process

Before inheriting a property, the deceased’s estate typically goes through probate. This legal process confirms the validity of the will and appoints an executor to distribute assets, including property.

Inheritance tax

In the UK, inheritance tax (IHT) may apply to estates above a certain threshold. It's crucial to determine if the property is subject to IHT and understand any reliefs or exemptions that may apply.

Title deeds and ownership

Upon inheritance, you’ll need to transfer the property’s ownership. This involves updating the title deeds with the Land Registry, which ensures legal ownership rights.

Mortgage and financial responsibilities

If the property has an outstanding mortgage, you’ll need to address repayment options. Seek advice on handling financial obligations related to the property.

Wills and intestacy

Whether there’s a valid will or not affects how the property is inherited. Understanding intestacy rules is crucial if there’s no will.

Executor’s role

Executors have legal responsibilities to administer the estate, including the property. They ensure debts are settled, taxes paid, and assets distributed as per the will.

Property valuation

Obtaining a professional valuation helps assess the property's market worth. This informs decisions on selling, renting, or retaining the property.

Family discussions

Inherited property can stir emotions and family dynamics. Open communication and clarity on intentions can help mitigate potential conflicts.

Maintenance and insurance

Property upkeep and insurance are ongoing responsibilities. Ensure the property is adequately maintained and insured to protect its value.

Selling or renting

Decide whether to sell, rent out, or occupy the property. Each option has financial and personal implications, so consider your long-term goals.

Seek professional advice

Navigating inherited property involves legal, financial, and personal considerations. Consulting with legal and financial professionals ensures you make informed decisions tailored to your circumstances.

For more advice, contact our expert team today

What Our Customers Say...

Fantastic agents. Kept us informed at every stage during the purchase of a property and provided information and reassurance Zara 01/08/2025

I had no experience in buying a house the staff namely Amber helped me every step of the way. Always upbeat and happy to answer any questions. Thank you. Customer 2 01/08/2025

Karen Marijewko was amazing from start to finish, always at the end of the phone and kept me in the loop at every stage! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Karen and Richard Kendall to anyone! The only downside was as I don't live in Wakefield I went with a solicitor they recommended and I had to keep chasing them! I would recommend doing your research into the conveyancing! Richard 01/08/2025

Liz was amazing, kept us updated at every stage, nothing was too much trouble, excellent service would highly recommend Amanda 01/08/2025

We recently sold our house through Richard Kendall and throughout the whole process, Joanne did an amazing job looking after us. Keeping us informed and my stress levels under control. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Joanne and Richard Kendall Estate Agency. Hazel Holdsworth David 01/08/2025

Having had a disastrous experience elsewhere, we turned to Richard Kendall Wakefield for help in selling our property. Their whole team were nothing but professional excellence from beginning to end with our property being processed from market to completion in a little less than 6 months. Special thanks to Cathrine and Shireen for their care and attention to detail with excellent communication at every stage of the process. THANKYOU ALL Team Wakefield. John 01/08/2025

Don't look elsewhere for an agent to sell your property. A big thank you to Karen Marijewko for being very proactive and keeping us informed on the sale of our house. We were lucky enough to have a smooth sale, but nonetheless made even easier with Karen's knowledge and helpful advice. In Karen's absence when on holiday etc, the Kendall team were able to help us with any enquiries, a really good team spirit within the company. Additionally, we'd like to say thank you to Danny who valued our property, and Andy the photographer, both were amazing in getting our property listed. We would highly recommend Kendalls to anyone looking to sell their property. Sonya 01/08/2025

All I can say is thank goodness for Amanda at the Pontefract branch! That woman has the patience of a saint and works tirelessly Fantastic commentator, genuine empathy and has supported us every step of the way with our sale If only every service provider worked like this then life would be a lot easier! Thanks Amanda for all your hard work!! Claire 01/08/2025

I couldn’t recommend Richard Kendall’s highly enough, Sarah was absolutely amazing and kept us sane throughout a complicated purchase. I hope never to move again but if did I would use them. Satah 01/08/2025

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