Inherited property in poor condition

[Clueless147]

I recently jointly inherited a property with my brother. He has no interest in keeping the property himself, whereas I do.

Problem is the property is in poor condition, obviously damp and may have structural issues.

I’d consider buying my brother’s share but I’m not sure what way to best approach it. Do I get an Estate Agent to value the property or do I go for a building survey first?

My concern is the Estate Agent may value too highly and make it too expensive for me to buy my brothers half especially if the survey shows it has major issues and isn’t worth the price.

If I get a survey done first will the agent take this into account?

I guess I just don’t want to pay over the odds and don’t know the first step to take.

Can you chose a structural surveyor between you who will do a survey and valuation too?

I know some don't but they used to when we bought here (a long time ago so maybe things have changed).

Get 3 valuations and take the middle to be fair to you both

Get a surveyor who values for probate to give an accurate value based on the condition of the property. Estate agents valuations will be higher.

We sold a property to a friend without using an estate agency, but to make sure all was fair and above board had a full home report (survey and valuation) done. We then agreed a price based on that impartial report. You can stay away from an estate agent (and their fees) if you and your brother agree to accept the survey valuation.

Thing is though if they don’t take into account the condition of the property then I could be paying way over the odds.

I think I’ll look into this, probably what I was hoping for in a round about way. Thanks