Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their property can often feel overwhelming. For many families, selling or managing a probate property is something they’ve never had to do before, meaning it’s easy to make decisions that can lead to unnecessary delays, additional costs or even a lower sale price.
Whether you’re acting as an executor or helping a family member through the probate process, taking the right steps from the beginning can make the process far less stressful.
Here are some of the most common mistakes we see, and how to avoid them.
1. Not Obtaining a Professional Property Valuation
One of the first steps in the probate process is establishing the value of the property.
A professional valuation is often required to help calculate the value of the estate for inheritance tax purposes and provides an accurate record of the property’s market value at the date of death.
Relying on online valuation tools or informal estimates can result in inaccurate figures, which may create complications later in the probate process.
A valuation carried out by an experienced RICS-regulated surveyor provides independent, evidence-based advice that you can rely on.
2. Leaving the Property Unoccupied Without Taking Precautions
Many probate properties remain empty while legal matters are being resolved.
Unfortunately, vacant properties can become more vulnerable to issues such as leaks, deterioration, vandalism or even theft.
It’s important to:
- Notify the property’s insurer that it is unoccupied.
- Visit the property regularly.
- Keep the garden maintained.
- Ensure the property is secure.
- Arrange for any urgent repairs to prevent further damage.
Taking these simple steps can help protect the value of the property while probate is ongoing.
3. Delaying Essential Maintenance
It can be tempting to leave everything exactly as it is until probate has been granted, but small maintenance issues can quickly become larger and more expensive problems.
A leaking roof, faulty guttering or damp can worsen significantly if left unattended, potentially affecting the property’s value.
Simple maintenance and repairs can often make a significant difference to both presentation and buyer confidence.
4. Spending Money on Unnecessary Renovations
Many families assume they need to completely modernise a probate property before putting it on the market.
In reality, extensive renovations don’t always deliver the return people expect.
Before committing to major works, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
In many cases, a thorough clean, fresh decoration, decluttering and a few minor repairs can make the property far more appealing without the expense of a full refurbishment.
An experienced property professional can advise where improvements are likely to add value, and where your money is better saved.
5. Choosing the Wrong Selling Strategy
Every probate property is different.
Some homes attract strong interest from families looking for a forever home, while others may appeal to developers, landlords or investors.
Marketing the property to the right audience and setting an appropriate asking price is essential for achieving the best possible outcome.
A tailored marketing strategy, supported by professional photography and expert local knowledge, can make a significant difference to both the level of interest and the final sale price.
6. Trying to Manage Everything Alone
Executors often find themselves balancing legal responsibilities alongside work, family commitments and the emotional impact of losing someone close.
Trying to organise valuations, maintenance, legal paperwork, viewings and negotiations alone can quickly become overwhelming.
Working with experienced property professionals can remove much of the stress, providing guidance throughout the process and helping everything run as smoothly as possible.
How Oakwood Property Services Can Help
At Oakwood Property Services, we understand that every probate case is unique.
Our experienced team provides professional property valuations, expert advice and tailored support to help executors and families navigate the process with confidence.
Whether you require a valuation for probate purposes, advice on preparing a property for sale or assistance marketing the property to the right buyers, we’re here to help every step of the way.
With expertise across residential, commercial and rural property, we offer independent, professional advice backed by local market knowledge and the high standards expected of a RICS-regulated firm.
Need Advice on a Probate Property?
If you’re dealing with a probate property and would like professional guidance, the team at Oakwood Property Services is here to help.
Get in touch today to arrange a professional valuation or speak to one of our experienced surveyors about the best next steps. We’re here to make what can often feel like a complicated process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
