A Considered Approach to Probate Property Sales.
Selling property during probate can place additional pressure on both legal teams and executors. Multiple agents, unclear advice and inconsistent communication often lead to delays, unnecessary queries and reduced confidence in decision-making.
Edwards & Co takes a different approach. We manage probate property sales as a coordinated process, not a transactional listing. Our role is to advise on the most appropriate route to sale, oversee the strategy and reduce the administrative burden on solicitors by acting as a central point of coordination throughout.
Assisted Sale.
Assisted Sale is a managed sale process we have designed specifically for probate property. Under this approach, Edwards & Co instructs two suitable local agents to market the property at the same time, while we oversee the strategy and coordination throughout.
Only the agent who successfully completes the sale is paid. Their fee is covered within the single fee agreed with Edwards & Co. This means one instruction, one managed process and one overall fee, rather than multiple agent agreements or duplicated costs for the estate.
How it works.
Single Point of Instruction.
Edwards & Co is instructed to manage the sale on behalf of the estate. We act as the central point of coordination, advising on strategy and keeping solicitors and executors informed throughout the process.
Dual Agent Marketing.
Two suitable local agents are instructed to market the property at the same time. This allows interest, pricing and performance to be assessed objectively, without conflicting advice or duplicated administration.
Single Fee Structure.
Only the agent who successfully completes the sale is paid. Their fee is covered within the single fee agreed with Edwards & Co, avoiding multiple agent agreements or duplicated costs for the estate.
Why Choose Assisted Sale.
Assisted Sale offers a flexible alternative to traditional sole agency instructions, particularly for probate property where control, transparency and adaptability are important.
Assisted Sale | Traditional Sole Agency | |
|---|---|---|
Coordination
| Central coordination by Edwards & Co
| Solicitor or executor manages communication
|
Fees | 1.5% + VAT | Typically 1 - 1.5% + VAT |
Risk of Stagnation
| Reduced through active oversight
| Higher if the agent underperforms
|
Decision Making
| Evidence-led using live market feedback
| Based on a single agent’s advice
|
Performance Review | Agent performance assessed throughout
| Reliant on one agent’s performance
|
Flexibility
| Strategy can be reviewed and adjusted
| Limited ability to change approach mid-instruction
|
Contractual Tie-In | No long-term agency tie-in
| Often includes a fixed sole agency period
|
Instruction | Single instruction to Edwards & Co | Instruction to one estate agent
|
Agent Involvement
| Two agents instructed in parallel | One agent only
|
Auction Sale.
Auction can be a suitable route for certain probate properties where an open market sale may be less effective. Edwards & Co advises on auction only where it is genuinely appropriate and manages the process on behalf of the estate when this route is chosen.
Rather than defaulting to auction, we assess the property, market conditions and priorities of the estate before advising whether it should be considered.
When to consider Auction.
Property Condition.
Properties with significant disrepair, structural issues or non-standard construction may be less attractive to mortgage buyers, making auction a more practical route.
Mortgageability Issues.
Where a property is unmortgageable due to condition, tenure or legal complexity, auction can attract cash buyers who are better suited to these circumstances.
Timescale Requirements.
In some estates, speed and certainty of sale may be prioritised over maximising price. Auction provides a defined marketing period and completion timetable.
Our Role in Auction Sales.
Where auction is recommended, Edwards & Co manages the process by advising on suitability, coordinating with reputable auctioneers and supporting solicitors and executors throughout. This includes guidance on reserve pricing, preparation of legal packs and managing expectations around outcomes.
Auction is treated as a strategic option, not a fallback, and is only recommended where it aligns with the needs of the estate.
Frequently asked questions.
Do we have to use Assisted Sale?
No. Assisted Sale is one option. Edwards & Co advises on the most appropriate route to sale based on the property, market conditions and the priorities of the estate. Where Assisted Sale is not suitable, we will explain the alternatives and support a different approach.
Can you work with an agent the executor already knows?
Yes. Where appropriate, we can work with an agent already known to the executor or solicitor, provided they are suitable for the property and the agreed sale strategy. Our role is to coordinate and oversee the process rather than replace existing relationships unnecessarily.
Are we tied into a long-term contract?
No. There is no long-term contract with Edwards & Co, and the estate is not locked into a sole agency agreement. This allows the sale strategy to be reviewed and adjusted if market response or circumstances change.
What happens if an agent underperforms?
Assisted Sale allows performance to be monitored throughout the marketing period. If interest levels, feedback or progress are not as expected, the approach can be reviewed and adjusted without delay, rather than being restricted by sole agency terms.
Do you always recommend auction for difficult properties?
No. Auction is considered only where it is genuinely appropriate. We assess each property individually and advise on auction where condition, mortgageability or timescale make it a suitable option for the estate.
What areas do you cover for sales?
We are based in Essex and manage probate property sales nationwide. We work with suitable local agents and auctioneers to ensure each property is marketed appropriately for its location.
Discuss Your Requirements.
If you are dealing with a property as part of a probate or estate matter and would like to discuss valuations, sale options or practical support, complete the form or contact us with the details and we will advise on the most appropriate way forward.
Our aim is to provide clear guidance, straightforward communication and a process that reduces pressure on solicitors and executors alike.