Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Washington

Re: transfer on death, washington state

The only way to transfer real property after the owner has died is to open a probate. If the decedent does not have a will it is called an ajudication of intestacy and the property will pass in equal shares to the decedent's heirs. If the decedent left a will, then it is called a probate and the will is administered as outlined in the will.

But you can't transfer real property without telling the court and getting permission.

This isn't self-help law. It is a fairly simple matter for a skilled estate attorney and you should interview and hire one. The cost of the attorney fees will come out of the estate.

Elizabeth Powell