Full question:
I am buying a lot that is scheduled to go to a tax foreclosure auction in 2-1/2 weeks. The lot is in the name of 2 men who are both deceased. Their wives have offered to sell me the lot, but I need to make it happen very quickly so that I can pay off the back taxes and other liens before the lot is sold at auction. I believe that Washington is a Joint Tenancy State, but neither woman had her name on the original Deed. What forms or paperwork needs to be filed first before the two women can sign a Quitclaim Deed to me? They actually both live in Smith County Washington.
- Category: Wills and Estates
- Date:
- State: Washington
Answer:
To transfer property from deceased individuals, the estates must go through probate. If there is a will, the named executor is responsible for transferring the property. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator. The executor or administrator can transfer the property using a fiduciary deed, also known as an executor's deed.
To obtain letters testamentary or letters of administration, a petition must be filed with the court. If the estate's value is under one hundred thousand dollars, it may qualify for a faster small estate administration process, which begins no sooner than forty days after the decedent's death.
For more details, you may refer to the following Washington statutes: RCW 11.28.110 regarding applications for letters of administration, and RCW 11.62.010 about the disposition of personal property by affidavit.
It is advisable to consult a local attorney to review all relevant facts and documents.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.