The situation
Executors face IHT payable before the estate is liquid. Buyers face vendors who need to complete quickly to settle liabilities. Either side of the deal, delay is expensive: IHT interest ticks daily, and a good buyer walks after 8 weeks.
How we approach it
We arrange bridging that either funds an IHT payment against the estate assets, or funds a buyer completing before grant is fully sealed with an undertaking. Exit is the eventual sale or refinance once probate concludes.
What that looks like in practice
- Loans structured against probate property with executor consent
- IHT bridging paid directly to HMRC where required
- Solicitors experienced in executor sales and grant undertakings
- Interest rolled up so no monthly service required from the estate
- Regulated route where the property was the deceased's main residence
Typical timeline
- Week 1Estate details, valuation instructed, IHT position mapped.
- Week 2-3Terms, underwriting, executor legal review.
- Week 3-4Drawdown — funds released to HMRC or completion account.
Common questions
Can we borrow before grant of probate?
In some cases yes, with an executor's undertaking and clear title evidence. Most lenders prefer grant issued, but a few fund on undertaking for straightforward estates.
Who repays the bridge?
The estate — either from the eventual property sale, or from released estate funds once probate completes. We model the redemption in advance.
What about IHT specifically?
HMRC accept direct payment from a bridging lender. This is a well-worn route and stops interest accruing on the IHT bill while the estate is being wound up.
Probate is time-sensitive
Send the estate details and we'll come back with a realistic bridging structure within 24 hours.