At Bates & Co Estate and Letting Agents, we specialise in sensitive, professional and efficient probate property sales across Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate and wider East Sussex. Our team provides clear guidance, transparent communication and expert support from the first valuation to final completion.
Probate is the legal process that gives the executor (or administrator, where no Will exists) the authority to deal with the deceased person’s estate, including property, finances and assets. It confirms who has the legal right to:
Value the estate
Settle debts and liabilities
Distribute assets to beneficiaries
Sell or transfer the property
Probate is typically required when:
The deceased owned a property in their sole name
There are substantial bank accounts, assets or investments
There is no surviving joint owner who automatically inherits
The estate exceeds certain financial thresholds
The person responsible for applying depends on whether there is a Will:
The named Executor(s) apply for a Grant of Probate.
A next of kin (usually spouse, civil partner or adult child) applies for Letters of Administration.
Both documents grant legal authority to manage and sell the property.
Probate becomes effective once the (or Letters of Administration) is issued by the HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Only at this stage can:
Funds be distributed
The property legally complete a sale
Assets be transferred or closed
— a key advantage when aiming to reduce delays.
Instruct an estate agent
Arrange professional valuations
Begin marketing
Accept offers
Exchange contracts
Complete the sale
Completion can only take place after probate is granted.
Starting early means the sale is ready to progress the moment the Grant arrives, reducing overall timescales.
8–16 weeks from application to receiving the Grant
Longer in complex estates, disputes, or where more documentation is required
10–14 weeks for the sale process after an offer is accepted
Starting valuations and marketing early can significantly speed up final completion once the Grant is issued.
We provide transparent communication and valuation evidence to help avoid disputes.
We liaise directly with your probate solicitor to keep things moving.
We advise on insurance, inspections and security.
We provide accurate valuations required for HMRC and inheritance tax submissions.
6 George Street
Hailsham
East Sussex
BN27 1AE