Q: How do I claim ownership of my deceased brother's land after paying taxes?
My brother passed away without leaving a will, and I have been paying the property taxes on his land for three years. My name was added as "Co" on the tax information, and now the tax bill is sent to my address, showing his name followed by "Co" and my name. I have not taken any legal actions to transfer the property title to my name, nor have I received official documents regarding ownership. I am not currently living on or using the land. How do I proceed with claiming ownership or understanding my rights concerning this property?
A: In order to legally transfer the title to the land, you will need to petition his estate to Probate in the county where he lived. Once his estate is approved, you can as the executor to the estate, transfer the title of the land via quitclaim deed.
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