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...

I have recently purchased a property through Richard Kendall Estate Agent. The service was excellent from Emily Dunbar. She chased solicitors for me and constantly kept me updated with the progress. Emily is a credit to Richard Kendall's. Thanks Emily for everything. Adele 10/12/2025

Donna and Joanne were superb at helping and supporting me through quite a difficult sale. Communication and follow up was excellent and everything was dealt with in a friendly and professional manner I would certainly recommend Richard Kendall to all my friends and family. Jill 10/12/2025

We have used Richard Kendall for many years so when deciding to sell our loved property due to heath issues this was the company we straight away contacted initially David at the Wakefield Office and then we were luckily put with senior consultant Karen Marijewko. Karen was so thoughtful and kind she knew about our health problems and went out of her way to guide us through the process of selling and buying .She is a senior property consultant and really deserves that title . If we ever have to move again I would definitely ask for Karen and would advise family and friends to do the same. Judith 10/12/2025

I had a great experience with Elizabeth Cooke from Richard Kendall for the sale of my property. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and was always proactive in chasing things up and staying in regular contact. Her communication was clear, consistent, and always reassuring, which made everything feel easier and less stressful. Liz’s professionalism, friendliness, and dedication was outstanding. I’m so grateful for all her hard work in getting my property sold. Would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a friendly, professional, reliable and supportive estate agent Liz 10/12/2025

Really pleased with all the staff, especially Leah, they kept me up to date throughout the whole process of buying our house, it was easy to get hold of them and on the rare occasion I couldn’t they responded back very quickly cracking estate agents. Graham 10/12/2025

We recently sold a relative's home through Richard Kendall and the service was excellent. The team and in particular our main contact Mandy at the Ossett office kept us informed and updated throughout, explaining where we were at every stage of the process. A professional yet personal service and we would recommend Richard Kendall to anyone thinking of buying or selling a home. Nigel 10/12/2025

Would highly recommend Richard Kendall, this was the second time I’ve used them for selling a house. Amber in the Pontefract office dealt with my sale and she was really helpful, friendly, professional and kept me up-to-date with everything going on with the sale and the wider chain. Thank you! Chris 10/12/2025

Amazing service from Catherine and Shireen at the Wakefield City Branch. They have made the process of moving house so smooth and always kept us up to date with any progress. Can't recommend them enough! Gemma 10/12/2025

We were selling my mum and dad’s house and was an emotional time for me and my sister. Sarah at the Normanton branch dealt with the sale from start to finish. I cannot recommend Sarah enough and she is a credit to Richard Kendall. She kept us informed all the way through and answered any questions we had. She was professional and friendly and made what was a sad time selling the family home easier. The sale was quick and seamless due to Sarah. Thank you Richard Kendall’s, I would recommend them to anyone selling their property Claire 10/12/2025

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