If you are due to execute someone’s estate, then you want to do so as efficiently as possible. Not only will this save you time, but it will mean that the beneficiaries get the assets due to them as soon as possible. Doing that means they are less likely to be nagging you to hurry up, or that they will become unhappy with how long it is taking and perhaps try to remove you as executor.
Firstly, it is important to understand that probate will take at least a few months, and in more complex cases, it can take years. Getting an idea of the complexities you will face can help you set realistic expectations about the length of time required. You can speed things up by acting efficiently, but only to a certain point.
Start with a list of assets
Discovering assets halfway along is only going to slow probate down. Start by making a list of all the deceased’s property.
Use the family
Some of the deceased’s family members probably have far more knowledge of certain aspects of the deceased’s affairs than you. They may be able to tell you where the deceased banked or invested, or where the secret safe containing heirloom jewelry is located. They may also have the contact details of people you will need to tell that the person has passed.
Bring in professionals where needed
Don’t try and guess the value of an antique, or glean what a building might be worth from Zoopla. Instead, call in people who making their living putting a value on these particular things.
You can also seek legal guidance to aid you through the whole process. Legal presence can also add legitimacy to the proceedings and help quash any doubts the beneficiaries might have about how you are handling things.
