Midurban Realty Corp. v. F. Dee & L. Realty Corp.

220 A.D. 814

Opinion

Proskauer, J.

(dissenting). The real property, title to which is here in question, was not specifically devised, but was a part of the general estate of Emily A. Watson. The transfer tax is not a lien upon such real estate, but only upon the proceeds of such real estate in the hands of her executors when sold pursuant to the power of sale contained in the 11th paragraph of the will. To hold otherwise would be seriously to impair the ability of executors to liquidate and settle the affairs of an estate. Under Brown v. Lawrence Park Realty Co. (133 App. Div. 753) and Smith v. Browning (225 N. Y. 358) this transfer tax did not constitute a lien upon the real estate itself. It would be otherwise if, as in Smith v. Browning, the property were specifically devised. For these reasons I vote for reversal,