What if my sibling and I disagree about dividing the estate assets?

The executor is responsible for administering the estate in accordance with the will, but where beneficiaries cannot agree on how shared or non-cash assets should be divided, the executor may need to make a decision, sell the assets and divide the proceeds, or facilitate an agreement, such as one sibling buying out the other's share of the house at a fair valuation. If a dispute cannot be resolved between you, mediation is often a practical first step, since it is faster and cheaper than litigation, and many family lawyers offer this. If mediation fails, the executor or a beneficiary can apply to the court for directions on how the estate should be administered, or for the appointment of an independent valuer. Try to remain constructive, since ongoing disputes reduce the value of the estate through legal costs.