Probate
Probate is the court process confirming a will and executor’s authority, required for transferring estate-owned real estate.

September 30, 2025
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process by which a court validates a deceased person’s will and authorizes the executor to distribute the estate. In real estate, probate confirms the authority to transfer or sell property from the estate.
Why Probate Matters in Real Estate
Probate matters in real estate because it ensures clear title transfer and protects buyers from disputes. It can delay transactions and incur fees, making estate planning important for property owners.
Example of Probate in Action
After a homeowner’s death, their executor must obtain probate before selling the property and distributing proceeds to beneficiaries.
Key Takeaways
- Court process validating wills and executor authority.
- Required for transferring real estate from estates.
- Adds time and cost to estate administration.
- Ensures buyers receive clear title.
- Can be reduced with effective estate planning.
Related Terms
- Estate Administration
- Executor
- Inheritance
- Title Transfer
- Estate Planning

A rendering of Frame in East Vancouver. (Peterson)
The Tesla facility set for 908 Raymur Avenue in Vancouver. (Beedie)
Phase One of Sen̓áḵw in Summer 2025. (OPTrust, Nch’ḵay̓)
(QuadReal Property Group, Westbank)
The two-tower Cascades project under construction in mid-2025. (Ledcor)
A rendering of Perla near Central Park. (Polygon Homes)
Phase One of Concord Metrotown is located at the corner of Kingsway and Nelson Avenue in Burnaby. (Concord Pacific)
Myriad will complete Concert Properties’ Heart of Burquitlam community. (Concert Properties)
SOCO 2 (left) in Coquitlam. (Drew Powell, LinkedIn)
King George Hub in Surrey. (Submitted by PCI Developments)







The Yonge Corporate Centre at 4100-4150 Yonge Street. (Europro)
Jon Sailer













Pennyfarthing's The Capstone, Langley (pennyfarthinghomes.ca)
Rendering for MAKE Projects' Smith Campus Middle and Secondary School (makeprojects.ca)
Rendering for STRYKE's Innovation District 