NYC probate question

[mcnyc]

My wife (now deceased) was the sole owner of our home.
This is her only asset that needs to be past to me - all other assests
were jointly owned.
According to her will the house should pass directly to me.

Since this is the only asset that needs to be distributed is there
an easier way to transfer the house than going through probate?
Probate seems like a long and expensive option.

Is there a NYC law that states that the surviving spouse is entitled
to the house?

Thank you for any advice.

 

[seniorjudge]

From my very brief research, I believe you must have a probate estate set up.