Dealing with probate in Houston can be a confusing and emotionally taxing process for the grieving family of someone who suddenly passed on–especially if they didn’t leave a will behind.
If you’re confused about probate or want to make sure you’ve chosen the right probate real estate specialist for your needs, here are five questions to ask:
1. How does the probate process work in Houston?
The probate process varies from state to state and can be complex depending on the size of the estate and the type of assets included.
Generally speaking, it involves the following steps:
- Filing a petition for probate with the court
- Validating and paying debts of the deceased
- Appraising assets
- Gathering information related to taxes and probate fees
- Notifying creditors
- Paying taxes
- Distributing remaining assets according to the will or laws of intestacy if there isn’t a will
- And finally, closing the probate case.
An experienced probate real estate specialist in Houston should be able to explain each step of this process as it pertains to your situation.
2. How can I make sure my rights are protected?
It’s important to review all documents carefully before signing anything since these documents often have legal implications.
Your probate real estate specialist should take time to explain what each document means so that you know exactly what you are agreeing to and can make informed decisions about how best to proceed with probating the estate.
3. What types of assets are subject to probate?
In general, most types of property owned by a deceased person are subject to probation, including the following:
- Bank accounts
- Stocks and bonds
- Life insurance policies
- Retirement accounts
- Tangible personal property such as furniture or jewelry
- Vehicles owned by someone else other than their spouse or children (such as cars)
- Homes or other types of land held in trust or under joint tenancy agreements (in which two or more people own equal shares).
Any asset not held jointly between spouses is typically subject to probation proceedings, even if it’s not specifically listed in a will or other legal document pertaining thereto.
When it comes to real estate in Houston, understanding one’s property and the local laws surrounding inheritance is key! Those wishing for legal assistance should know how their assets might be affected if there were no will left behind. A certified probate real estate specialist can help navigate this delicate matter with expertise.
4. What does a certified probate real estate specialist do?
Certified Probate Real Estate Specialists (CPRE) are licensed professionals who provide guidance on how best to handle matters related directly or indirectly connected with inheritance issues, including the following:
- Legal documentation required by both federal and state laws
- Calculating taxes owed
- Overseeing appraisals
- Researching title deeds
- Examining liens against properties
- Handling financial transactions
- Making recommendations on how best proceed with selling inherited properties while complying with applicable rules
5 . What resources are available to me?
In Houston, certified probate real estate specialists possess an invaluable asset – knowledge of local laws regarding inheritance. They can guide you every step of the way so you can swiftly and efficiently navigate complex legalities that may arise when handling inherited homes or land.
They can also be consulted regarding financial assistance options such as grants, loans, or other forms of relief available through state or federal funds.
It’s important to keep in mind that probate proceedings can be a long and complicated process, so it’s best to have an experienced professional on your side throughout the entire process in order to ensure probate assets are distributed accordingly, according to the law.
Our Probate Real Estate Specialists Are Here For You
At Ohana Legacy Properties, our probate real estate specialists understand the nuances of probate proceedings in Houston and can offer comprehensive assistance throughout the process.
Our certified probate real estate specialists are highly experienced in helping clients deal with the complexities of probate, and can even help with the absence of a will or the presence of multiple beneficiaries involved. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate probate in Houston with ease.