Selling a probate property can be a minefield. Probate is the legal process of settling the estate of a deceased person and distributing their assets to beneficiaries. Executors are appointed who are responsible for gathering in the estate’s assets, including property, paying any debts and releasing assets to the will’s beneficiaries.
Before this can be done, a Grant of Probate must be obtained and this can be a lengthy process. In the meantime, a property that may already be tired and outdated, starts to look distinctly neglected. At best, it will look shabby and unloved but if it’s left unoccupied over the winter it will become cold and damp and may also be vulnerable to squatters.
So how can you avoid these problems and achieve the best selling price for a probate property?
Quite simply, the same rules apply as for selling any other property – make sure you present the property in its best light. Homestaging or ‘dressing a property to sell’ is the key here. Start with some basic points.
Cut the grass regularly and tidy up the outside of the property. Give the inside a thorough clean and remove any unwanted or unnecessary furniture or personal belongings. Repair any broken fixtures or fittings and touch up any peeling paintwork.
But you could go one step further than this. Why not use the services of a professional homestaging specialist? They can handle everything for you – decluttering, repairing and redecorating, as well as dressing the property to sell. This means adding some contemporary furniture, maybe some soft furnishings and accessories (homestaging furniture can be rented so need not be expensive).
