@mspiege23 , probate is usually under the State rules.
If your "Life Estate" option stands the scrutiny, then there should be NO federal tax implications ( Gift / Capital Gains /GST / Estate Tax ) for the inheritors -- the basis of the property would have had a step up to Fair Market Value at the time of passing of the decedent.
Please accept my condolences for your loss.
Is there more I can do for you ?
