Inheritance guide
Buying out a co-owner's share after an inheritance in Corsica
Does one heir want to keep the family home? They buy out the others' shares by making a balancing payment. Everything depends on an undisputed property valuation.
How a balancing payment is calculated
The balancing payment is calculated using the property's market value on the date of division, less any liabilities (outstanding mortgage), multiplied by the shares of the heirs being bought out. Example: house valued at 600 000 €, three heirs with equal shares, one buys out the other two and pays a balancing payment of 400 000 €.
The sensitive issue: the agreed valuation
An undervaluation disadvantages heirs selling their shares; an overvaluation makes financing impossible and may be challenged by the tax authorities. Our written expert valuation, supported by DVF transaction data actually recorded in the commune, provides an impartial basis accepted by banks and notaries.
Costs and financing
The division is subject to a division tax (2,5 % of the net assets divided) and the notary's regulated fees. Banks generally finance a share buyout like a conventional purchase, provided the value is documented and the buyer has sufficient borrowing capacity.
What we do for you
- Written expert valuation with supporting evidence, which can be relied on before the bank and notary
- Actual comparable DVF sales in the commune, not asking prices
- Estimate of the balancing payment and remaining financing required
- Introductions to partner mortgage brokers in Corsica
Get an inherited property valued
A free, written valuation with supporting evidence, delivered within 24 to 72 hours and suitable for sharing with your notary. A single point of contact for all heirs.
Frequently asked questions
What valuation is used to calculate the balancing payment?
Based on the market value on the date of division, not the date of death. This is why a recent expert valuation is essential when several months have passed since the inheritance.
What are the costs of buying out a co-owner's share?
Asset division tax of 2,5 % on net assets, notary's regulated fees and, where applicable, bank guarantee costs. The total remains significantly lower than the costs of a standard purchase.
Can you pay the balancing payment to buy out a co-owner without a loan?
Yes, if the person taking over has the funds or if the heirs accept payment by instalments formalised in the deed of partition. This latter option must be legally secured by the notary.