Estate of Hunter

This is an appeal from an order confirming a probate sale of real property.

Appellant William Ward and his sister, Prances Ward Anschen, heirs and legatees of Lydia A. Hunter, the decedent, filed objections to the confirmation of sale on the grounds (1) that it would not be in the best interests of the estate since the area surrounding the property was in the process of being developed, and a much higher price could be obtained if the sale were delayed; (2) that the proposed sale would depress the value of the adjoining land belonging to Hunter Ranch Company, 50 per cent of which stock was owned by the estate; and (3) that they were the only persons entitled to the real property being sold and they desired to continue their residence thereon.

The main assets of the estate consisted of two parcels of realty, one of which was the subject of the above mentioned sale, and 50 per cent of the stock of Hunter Ranch Company, the other 50 per cent being owned by appellant.

On August 9, 1960, a hearing was held on the objections. Respondent administrator showed that the obligations of the estate were in excess of $140,000. The real property had been sold for $148,428. Appellant admitted…