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Property tenure: I’m loving freehold instead
With the introduction of the long-anticipated Building Safety Act in April, and the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act in June, you could say that in 2022 It Was a Very Good Year for leaseholders, who were granted additional protections from landlords in relation to both existing and new-build properties respectively.
Can you sell a house or close bank accounts before Probate is granted?
In general probate is required before you can close bank accounts, obtain life insurance or sell a house after someone has died. As with most things, however, there are exceptions to this rule.
The importance of accurate replies in conveyancing transactions – Downing v Henderson (2023)
During the conveyancing process, the seller of a property will generally be expected to provide a vast amount of information to the buyer, for example in relation to historic disputes, utility services (including electrical and gas inspections), flooding, third-party occupiers and any works that have been carried out.
Buying a property: what steps are involved?
The intricacies of the conveyancing process can often make the process of buying a property daunting. For that reason, having an understanding of what’s involved, and why, can prove the difference between you encountering either a frustrating or a stress-free transaction.
Selling a property: what steps are involved?
The decision to sell your property, whether it is your home or an investment property, can be a daunting one. For that reason, a general knowledge of the key steps that are involved in the sale process, and the order in which they can be expected to take place, can be crucial to ensuring that you are able to proceed with the sale smoothly and efficiently.
The problem with homemade Wills
In this blog we outline the issues that can arise from creating a homemade Will, and the benefits of using a legal professional.
Protecting your assets abroad
If you live in the UK but have assets abroad there are a number of things that you need to consider. In this guide we outline what steps you can take to ensure your assets are protected.
Leaving an inheritance to your children
In this blog we will provide you with a clear understanding of the importance of leaving an inheritance to your children and the potential risks involved in not doing so.
Debunking probate myths and understanding the probate process
Despite its importance, there are many misconceptions surrounding the probate process that often lead to confusion and misunderstandings. In this blog, we will explore some of the most common probate misconceptions and clarify the facts.
The late Queen and her Estate
In September 2022, the world was shocked to hear about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Not only was she Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until her death in 2022, but she was also queen regnant of 32 sovereign states during her lifetime, and was head of state of 15 realms at the time of her death.
Estate planning for the modern family: cost-effective solutions for transferring wealth in the UK
In today’s complex world, estate planning has become even more important as families have become more diverse. This is especially true in the UK, where the modern family often consists of blended families, same-sex couples, and single parents.
Wills vs. gifts: choosing the most cost-effective option for leaving your estate to your children
When it comes to leaving your estate to your children, you have two main options: making a will or giving gifts. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the most cost-effective option will depend on your specific circumstances.
Understanding probate: a guide for estate executors
As an executor, the process of probate can seem overwhelming. Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s will, or estate under the intestacy rules and distributing their assets to the designated beneficiaries.
Wills and estate planning for blended families
When you and your partner create a life together with the children from one or both of your previous relationships, this is known as a blended family. It can sometimes be difficult for blended families to discuss how they wish for their Estates to be divided regarding their Wills.
Which type of Will is right for you?
Many people do not know that there are a number of different types of Will that can be used to distribute your assets and property after your death and protect your loved ones.
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