What is the impact of probate on real estate titles?

Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away, whereby their assets, including real estate, are distributed according to their will or, if there is no will, according to state law. The impact of probate on real estate titles primarily includes the potential for delays in the transfer of property ownership. When property is subject to probate, it must go through court proceedings to validate the will, settle debts, and then distribute the remaining assets. This can take time, sometimes several months or even years, which can hinder the immediate transferability of the deceased person's property.

During the probate process, the property is often considered part of the estate and cannot be easily sold or transferred without court approval. This inability to quickly transfer the title can affect buyers, potential heirs, and the overall management of the property until probate is fully resolved. Thus, the correct answer highlights a significant reality of how probate impacts real estate titles by introducing potential delays in the process.