Inheriting property in a trust is far easier than going through probate. Q: My dad owns a duplex. He lives upstairs and rents the downstairs unit. He wants me to inherit the property after he dies. Should we transfer ownership of the property by will or by adding me to the deed? I understand all [...]
What to know about transferring property to beneficiaries. This reader wants to know if it’s better to transfer the title or go through probate. Q: I’ve enjoyed reading your recent article in our local newspaper on the differences between using a will and a quitclaim deed in order to pass property to heirs or family [...]
How to leave property to a child. This reader wants her daughter to inherit her home, but doesn’t want her to have to go through probate. Q: I am a 77-year old widowed woman. I have a house with a mortgage that I purchased a little over a year ago. At the closing, I asked [...]
Are transfer on death (TOD) deeds smart? This reader wants to know if it’s a safe way to avoid costly probate for children after their death. Q: I am thinking of doing a transfer upon death (TOD) deed to avoid costly probate for my children. Is this wise and safe to do? Would my heirs [...]
Transfer on death deed vs. quitclaim deed: what's the difference? A transfer on death deed is not the same as a quit claim deed. Q: I have read many articles from you concerning quitclaim deeds. I have a very specific question related to it. Does the IRS say the grantor is giving a gift to [...]
