A privacy trust can help Maryland and Washington, DC property owners keep their individual names off the public deed and add an additional layer of privacy to their real estate ownership. When you purchase a home or investment property, do you want anyone with an internet connection to be able Read more
One of the first concerns many families have after a loved one passes away is: “What happens to the mortgage when the owner dies?” Some worry the bank will immediately foreclose. Others believe the entire loan must be paid off immediately. Fortunately, the reality is often less alarming. What happens Read more
One of the most common questions families ask after the death of a parent is: “What happens to the house now?” The answer depends on how the property was owned and what estate planning, if any, was completed before death. Some homes transfer relatively smoothly. Others require probate proceedings, deed Read more
Don’t Wait Too Long to Start Estate Planning Many people know they should have an estate plan. They intend to get around to it someday. After the holidays. After retirement. After the next vacation. After life slows down. Unfortunately, estate planning is one of those things that often gets postponed Read more
Many people create a revocable living trust believing it will help their family avoid probate after they pass away. Often, that is exactly what happens. However, simply signing a trust agreement does not automatically avoid probate. In fact, one of the most common estate planning issues I encounter is a Read more
When planning for the transfer of real estate after death, most people assume that a will or trust is the only way to ensure property passes smoothly to the right individuals. However, in Washington, D.C., property owners have an additional, highly effective option: the Transfer on Death Deed, also called Read more