Many people are afraid to make a will whereas others do not know the importance of making one.

A will must be in writing. It must be signed by the person making the will and witnessed by two persons, who are not beneficiaries.

It is important if you want your wishes to be carried out, after death, that you make a will. Many relatives will agree to carry out your wishes but, after death, there is no guarantee that will be done.

A family member is now learning about the importance of a will and has many regrets that she did not encourage her mother to make a will.

She explained that her mother, who died eight years ago, had given specific instructions as to what should be done with her house. However, her instructions died with her.

"My mom died eight years ago. during her last days, she asked that her house be rented and the money should go towards her grandchildren's schooling," she said.

"There are three of us. My sister who is married and has her own house, she went behind the rest of us and rented our mother's house. She arranged with the tenant that the rent be paid to her bank account. The other siblings are not benefiting from the rent and she does not give any of the money to my mother's grandchildren.

"It is unfair that she alone is benefiting. She knows that our mother wanted the house to be rented the grandchildren assisted with their schooling. We are having it real hard sending our children to school, yet my sister alone reaps the benefit. I cannot understand how my sister could disrespect our mother's wishes.

"What can I do to solve the problem?" she asked.

The money your sister collects for the rent should be shared by all three. Your mother died intestate. she did not make a will. You should go to the Administrator General's Department, outline your case and you will get assistance to resolve the problem. It is quite likely the property will be sold and money shared for you and and your siblings.