Title alignment matters. How property is titled drives probate, taxes, and control.
- Primary residence: Many use a revocable living trust to streamline transfer and maintain control during life.
- Investment properties: Often held in LLCs for liability separation; trusts can own the LLC interests.
- Beneficiary deeds / transfer-on-death deeds (where available): Can pass property directly to beneficiaries outside probate—check your state’s rules.
Action steps
- Inventory properties (address, entity, members/beneficiaries).
- Confirm titling matches your estate plan (trust names correct, schedules updated).
- Coordinate with your CPA/attorney on step-up in basis, community property rules, and gift strategies.
- Keep documents current (operating agreements, trust certificates, deeds, insurance).