Dividing an inherited property among siblings can be a complex and emotionally charged process in the UK. Here’s a concise guide on how to split inherited property fairly and efficiently under British law.
The fairest way to divide an inheritance is to precisely follow the deceased’s Will instructions. If no specific instructions exist, siblings should discuss their preferences openly and aim for a mutually agreeable solution.
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How to Split Inherited Property Between Siblings in the UK?
Review the Will to understand each sibling’s allocated share of the property:
- Selling the property and dividing the sale proceeds
- One sibling buying out the others’ shares
- Renting out the property and sharing the rental income
- Reaching a private arrangement (e.g., one takes the house, another takes a second home).
If no agreement is reached, the property may need to be sold, even if some siblings wish to keep it. This table provides the pros and cons for each option:
Option | Pros | Cons |
Selling | Clean break, equal division | Lose sentimental value |
Buyout | One sibling keeps property | Requires funds, potential resentment |
Renting | Generates income, retains property | Ongoing management, potential disputes |
How to Buy the Other Half of an Inherited Property?
If you wish to keep the inherited property, you can offer to buy out your siblings’ shares. Options include:
- Paying a lump sum for their shares
- Making payments with interest over time
- Taking out a mortgage or loan against the property
Negotiate a fair market price based on the property’s value and each sibling’s ownership percentage.
How to Get a Sibling Out of Your Parents' House?
If a sibling is living rent-free in the inherited house without permission:
- Request they pay rent or move out
- Offer to buy out their share
- As a last resort, consider legal action (e.g., eviction)
However, if the Will grants them a right to remain, they have the legal right to stay.
Key Considerations:
- Understand your rights and obligations as stated in the Will
- Communicate openly with siblings and the Executor
- Seek legal advice if disputes arise
- Prioritise fairness and preserving family relationships
Benefits of Selling Your Inherited House for Cash
Selling an inherited house for cash can be an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free, expedited sale process and a guaranteed sale:
1. Quick Sale: Selling a property for cash allows for a speedy sale, often completed within weeks, eliminating the hassle of listing the property on the open market.
2. No Repairs or Renovations: As cash buyers, we purchase properties in “as-is” condition, saving you the time, effort, and costs of repairs or renovations.
3. Avoid Estate Agent Fees: By selling directly to a cash buyer, you can avoid paying the estate agent’s commissions, which can be substantial.
4. Simplified Process: A cash sale involve less paperwork and fewer complications, making the process more straightforward and less stressful.
5. Certainty of Sale: Once a cash offer is accepted, the sale is virtually guaranteed, eliminating the risk of a buyer’s mortgage falling through or other complications that can arise in traditional sales.
6. Flexibility: Selling for cash allows you to choose a completion date that suits your needs, providing greater flexibility in your plans.
Sell with certainty & speed
Property Saviour Price Promise
- The price we’ll offer is the price that you will receive with no hidden deductions.
- Be careful with ‘cash buyers’ who require a valuation needed for a mortgage or bridging loan.
- These valuations or surveys result in delays and price reductions later on.
- We are cash buyers. There are no surveys.
- We always provide proof of funds with every formal offer issued.
We'll Pay £1,500 Towards Your Legal Fees
- No long exclusivity agreement to sign because we are the buyers.
- You are welcome to use your own solicitor.
- If you don’t have one, we can ask our solicitors for recommendations.
- We share our solicitor’s details and issue a Memorandum of Sale.
Sell With Certainty & Speed
- Our approach is transparent and ethical, which is why sellers trust us.
- 100% Discretion guaranteed.
- If you have another buyer, you can put us in a contracts race to see who completes first.
- Complete in 10 days or at a timescale that works for you. You are in control.
