Dealing with a loved one’s estate can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what steps to take first. From historic homes in Chester to family properties in rural villages like Audlem or Alderley Edge, many executors are left asking: What exactly needs to be valued? Who do I contact? And how do I ensure I’m doing things by the book?
That’s where SwiftValues can help. We specialise in probate valuations for exactly these situations, providing fast, HMRC-compliant reports whether you’re nearby or managing everything from a distance.
One Problem, Two Solutions
When you’re managing probate, it’s hard to know whether a full house visit is necessary, or whether you can handle things remotely.
Some estates are straightforward: a few photos may be all that’s needed. Others might contain antiques, jewellery, or collections that call for a closer look.
That’s why we offer two flexible valuation options to suit different situations, both fully HMRC-compliant and designed to take the pressure off you.
Option 1: Online House Contents Valuation
For many estates, particularly second homes and inherited properties with general furnishings, our £99+VAT online valuation is the ideal place to start. In fact, it’s the go-to first step for many solicitors we work with.
All you need to do is upload clear photos of each room and any standout items. Within 1–2 working days, we’ll return a detailed, HMRC-compliant valuation report outlining the open market value of the visible contents. If anything looks like it needs closer inspection, we’ll flag it for you.
This remote option is quick, cost-effective, and perfect for average homes where contents are unlikely to hold significant hidden value. It saves time, keeps costs under control, and ensures you’re fulfilling your duties as executor without unnecessary stress, all without setting foot in the property.
Option 2: In-Person Valuation Visit
If the estate includes antiques, jewellery, artwork, or anything that might be of higher value, an in-person visit is often the best route.
For £249 + VAT (plus travel), one of our experienced valuers will visit the property anywhere in Cumbria or Wales. They’ll carry out a full room-by-room inspection, take photographs and notes, and prepare a detailed, HMRC-compliant report listing the individual values of significant items, typically those worth over £1,500.
This option is especially useful for larger or taxable estates, where accuracy and thorough documentation matter most. It’s also ideal when there’s uncertainty about what might be valuable.
You don’t need to coordinate multiple specialists, we handle everything, and we’re completely independent, so there’s no hidden agenda to sell the items. Just practical, defensible valuation support when you need it most.
Which One Should You Choose?
Not sure where to start? Most executors begin with our £99 online contents valuation, and for good reason. It’s fast, affordable, and entirely risk-free.
If the valuer spots anything that needs a closer look, we’ll let you know, and if you decide to book an in-person visit, we’ll refund the £99 against the cost of the on-site valuation. That way, you’re not paying twice.
This step-by-step approach keeps things practical and cost-effective, especially if you’re managing a second home or rural property you haven’t seen in detail. Whether you stay online or move to a full visit, you’ll receive an HMRC-compliant report and expert guidance, with no pressure, no guesswork, and no surprises.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re handling an estate in Cumbria, North Wales, or anywhere else in the UK, we’re here to help.
Start with our £99 online contents valuation or arrange an in-person visit if you know there’s more to uncover. Both services are HMRC-compliant, completely independent, and designed to make your job as an executor easier.
Areas We Cover
SwiftValues provides probate valuations across the whole of Cheshire, from market towns to countryside estates. Whether the property is a main residence, inherited family home, or part of a wider portfolio, we can help—offering both online and in-person services to suit your needs.
We regularly carry out valuations in Chester, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Nantwich, Northwich, Macclesfield, Sandbach, Congleton, Crewe, Frodsham, Middlewich, Holmes Chapel, Tarporley, Lymm, and surrounding villages.
We also work with estates across the UK—so if you’re handling probate outside of Cheshire, just get in touch and we’ll guide you through the process.
Trusted Local Solicitors in Cheshire
If you need legal support alongside your probate valuation, there are several well-regarded firms in Cheshire who specialize in probate and estate administration. Many executors choose to work with a solicitor to help manage the process smoothly—especially for larger or more complex estates. Here are a few local firms worth considering:
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SAS Daniels LLP – sasdaniels.co.uk
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Hall Smith Whittingham LLP – hswsolicitors.co.uk
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Jolliffe & Co LLP (Chester) – jolliffe-co.com
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Poole Alcock Solicitors – poolealcock.co.uk
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Myerson Solicitors LLP (Altrincham, serving Cheshire) – myerson.co.uk
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Slater Heelis (serving Cheshire from Sale/Manchester) – slaterheelis.co.uk
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Butcher & Barlow LLP – butcher-barlow.co.uk