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Buying a House in Probate: How Long Does It Take?

The sale can't complete until probate is granted.

Buying a House in Probate: How Long Does It Take? Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Buying · Probate

Buying a probate property

Grantneeded
Oftenno chain
Soldas seen
Limitedinfo
In short: Probate properties are sold by the executors of someone who has died. You can agree a purchase before the grant of probate is issued, but contracts usually can't exchange or complete until it is. Once probate is granted, the sale can be quick because there's often no onward chain. Executors may know little about the property, so expect limited answers to enquiries, get a thorough survey and budget for updating. Probate application times vary; check current HMCTS guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy before probate is granted?

You can agree a sale, but completion usually waits.

Are probate homes cheaper?

Sometimes, if they need work.

Buying in London?

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