Who initially purchased the land?
If the original purchaser was a late ancestor, chances are the land is heirs’ property due to the fact that very few African-Americans had their estate probated prior to 1970. • When did the purchaser die? If the property owner died prior to 1970, again, it is likely that the land is heirs’ property, but it is advisable to check with your county probate court. • Was his or her estate probated within ten years of their death? If no, then the land is considered heirs’ property and the title must be cleared in a court of common pleas.
