People sometimes assume that their ownership of real property is clear and indisputable. After all, the process of acquiring real property is complex and requires signing paperwork in front of professionals.
While most people continue to hold title to their homes and other real property investments indefinitely until they choose to sell, others may face controversy. If another person has a credible claim to an interest in the property, title litigation might be the only way to resolve the conflict. Those who buy real property from an estate may be at elevated risk of title disputes later.
Heirs and beneficiaries could challenge a sale
A personal representative or executor administering an estate has numerous obligations. Those responsibilities include the identification of and communication with all heirs or beneficiaries. Unfortunately, sometimes personal representatives do not make contact with people who have an interest in real property during estate administration.
They may arrange to sell the property as part of the probate process. When those heirs or beneficiaries learn about the transaction later, they may take legal action. Title disputes related to probate sales can potentially endanger the ownership interests of the party who purchased the home from the estate. They may need to go to court to defend their interest in the home.
Discussing the circumstances of the purchase of a property and the origins of a current title dispute with a skilled legal team can help owners protect their investment. Disputes related to title rights often require the intervention of a civil judge. People trying to protect their real estate holdings from title claims may need information about the law and support as they prepare for a hearing in court, and that’s okay.