Probate is expensive! Your estate has to pay at least two people (the personal representative and the attorney) to oversee the transfer of your property to your heirs. Their fees are based on the value of your GROSS estate (can range from 6 to 10%). They can even charge more fees for additional services such as selling your property. Additionally, probate takes too long. The average probate estate is open from one to two years. Your heirs must wait to receive your property.