Losing a loved one is challenging, and handling the financial and property matters afterward can be tough. Inheriting a property with siblings in the UK can add complexity. You might sell the property and divide the proceeds. Another option is to keep the house together. Alternatively, one sibling may choose to buy out the others to keep the property.
In such situations, understanding how to finance a buyout becomes crucial. One popular solution is to take out a mortgage specifically designed for buying out siblings from an inherited propertyA property inherited by a borrower.. But how does this process work in the UK? What are the eligibility criteria, and what financial implications should you consider?
Post Topics
What happens if one sibling is buying out another?
Can I get a mortgage to buy out my siblings?
What do you need to buy a sibling out of an inherited house in the UK?
Do I have to pay stamp duty when buying out a sibling?
What other fees do I need to consider when getting a mortgage to buy out a sibling?
What happens if siblings cannot agree, and a forced sale is needed?
What happens if one sibling is buying out another?
To buy your parent’s house from a sibling, you first need their agreement as co-owners. Unless the will states otherwise, ownership of the inherited property is shared equally – you are joint tenants, in other words.
To record your intention to buy out the share of other siblings, you must formally submit a document to that effect to the Land Registry, together with a copy of the grant of probate – typically held by the executors of the will – which also needs to show the signatures of yourself and the siblings involved.
Can I get a mortgage to buy out my siblings?
Regardless of the will’s division, you may wish to buy your siblings’ shares in an inherited house. After determining the property’s market value, you can assess the shares’ worth. You’ll likely need to borrow funds, meaning you’ll need a mortgage to buy out your siblings.
Due to the complexities of probate and inheritance in the UK, it’s wise to seek legal and tax advice before buying out your siblings. It’s always better to consult a specialist mortgage broker before starting your application with a mortgage lender.
What do you need to buy a sibling out of an inherited house in the UK?
When you do not have the available funds, you will need a mortgage with which to buy a share of inherited property.
Typically, most mortgage lenders will be looking for your own contribution – by way of a deposit – of at least 5% of the value of the purchase. The bigger your deposit, of course, the more successful you are likely to find any mortgage application.
If you are self-employed, you might find it especially difficult to arrange that mortgage and might want to consult a mortgage broker specialising in such lending – or even a broker who specialises in mortgages for those with poor credit.
The role of a mortgage broker is to secure an agreement in principle for the loan – with subsequent assistance in securing the mortgage to buy out your sibling or siblings of Stamp DutyA tax paid by the buyer when purchasing a property. Land Tax (SDLT) your parent’s home.
Do I have to pay stamp duty when buying out a sibling?
Stamp Duty – Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) to give it its formal name – is not levied on your inheritance of property.
If you go ahead and buy out a sibling, however, then just as with the transfer of equityTransferring ownership of a property from one party to anoth... in any shared ownershipA scheme where a borrower purchases a share of a property an... property you are liable for Stamp Duty on the value of the share you are buying. That is to say, the amount you have paid your sibling for his or her share in the property.
If you buy a sibling’s share but continue to allow them to live in the property, you maintain your alternative place of residence but must declare your ownership of a second homeA property that is purchased as a second home or holiday hom.... As the online listings website Zoopla explains, the purchase of such a second home attracts a 3% surcharge on top of the normal rate of Stamp Duty.
What other fees do I need to consider when getting a mortgage to buy out a sibling?
In addition to any liability to pay Stamp Duty, you also need to keep in mind all the other expenses typically involved in property transactions – valuation fees, legal fees, and mortgage fees, to name but a few.
Once again, therefore, independent legal and tax advice are likely to be well worth your effort.
What happens if siblings cannot agree, and a forced sale is needed?
In certain circumstances, where communications have broken down among siblings and disagreements remain about the sale of any shares, the courts may be asked to adjudicate.
The court will be asked to consider an application for an Order for Sale under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 and address the issues:
- the intentions of all the parties (defined as trustees under the relevant legislation) – including the siblings – when the property was initially inherited, and the purpose of the trust was defined;
- the welfare of any minor trustees or other minors who occupy the home; and
- the interests of any secured creditors.
Next Steps
Arranging your affairs after a death in the family can be an emotionally fraught time – especially if the property is involved in an inheritance shared with your siblings.
It is typically possible to buy out any share in the property then owned by your siblings, and a mortgage may be available to help you with that transaction.
Perhaps more than in other more straightforward property transactions, however, buying a share of an inherited home can be complicated. At NeedingAdvice.co.uk we will bring our experience and expertise to bear in identifying lenders both on and off the high street, including specialist lenders.
FAQs – Mortgage to Buy Out Sibling from the Property
Can I buy out my siblings’ shares in an inherited home in the UK?
Yes, you can buy out your siblings’ shares in an inherited home in the UK through a process known as an inheritance buyout. This typically involves getting a mortgage to buy out your siblings or arranging a refinance loan to provide the necessary funds. It’s essential to agree on a fair purchase price that reflects the property’s market value. Also, understanding the probate process is crucial, as a grant of probate is needed to manage the property.
What happens if one sibling lives in an inherited property and refuses to sell in the UK?
If one sibling refuses to sell an inherited property, the situation can become legally challenging. All siblings, as joint owners, have rights to the property. Consulting with a legal advisor who specializes in joint ownership disputes is advisable. They can help explore alternatives, such as negotiating a buyout or selling the property and dividing the proceeds.
Do you pay Stamp Duty when inheriting a house with siblings in the UK?
You do not pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) when you inherit a property. However, if you decide to buy out a sibling’s share to become the sole owner, SDLT may apply based on the value of the transaction. For accurate mortgage advice regarding SDLT implications, it’s best to consult a financial advisor or a specialist mortgage broker.
Additional FAQs
How do you transfer ownership of an inherited property in the UK?
Transferring ownership of an inherited property involves completing a transfer deed and registering the change with the Land Registry. This step is part of the legal process that follows probate. Legal guidance may be necessary to ensure all regulatory requirements are met, particularly if the property was held as joint tenants or under a joint tenancy arrangement.
Can I sell my share of an inherited property in the UK?
Yes, you can sell your share of an inherited property. If the property is held as joint tenants, you must first convert the ownership to tenants in common, which allows for the independent sale of your share. This legal change requires precise documentation and, often, the consent of all joint owners.
Is the family home exempt from inheritance tax in the UK?
The family home can be exempt from inheritance tax if it’s passed to direct descendants and the value falls within the nil-rate band. An additional allowance, known as the residence nil-rate band, may apply when passing on a home. For a clear understanding of your tax obligations, it’s advisable to seek tax advice from a financial expert, especially concerning current laws.
How long does it take to buy someone out of a house?
The time required to buy someone out of a house can vary significantly. Factors such as the mortgage application process, legal proceedings, and probate, if applicable, can influence the timeline. Generally, securing a mortgage in principle and completing the mortgage deal can take several weeks to a few months.
Additional Faqs
Can you gift property to a family member in the UK?
Yes, it’s possible to gift property to a family member, but there may be implications for capital gains tax and inheritance tax, depending on the property’s value and the timing of the gift. Consulting a tax advisor is essential to understand potential tax liabilities.
What are the Stamp Duty implications of buying out siblings?
When buying out a sibling’s share in a property, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) may be payable, depending on the transaction’s value. The exact amount can vary based on several factors, including the price paid for the share being bought out.
What should I do if my sibling cheated me out of my inheritance?
If you believe a sibling has cheated you out of your rightful inheritance, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly. A solicitor experienced in inheritance disputes can help assess your situation and guide you on the best course of action to protect your rights.
How does a buyout work in inheritance situations?
An inheritance buyout involves one beneficiary purchasing the other beneficiaries’ shares in the inherited property. This usually requires obtaining a new mortgage or an equityThe difference between the value of the property and the amo... loan to cover the purchase price. Getting mortgage advice from a specialist can help you find the most suitable mortgage deal for your financial circumstances.