Using a Trust to Protect Your Real Estate Holdings

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If you own property, you don’t just need a title and a will — you need a plan.

That plan should include a trust — because trusts aren’t just for the ultra-wealthy.

They’re one of the simplest and most powerful tools to:

  • Avoid probate
  • Protect your assets
  • Control what happens to your real estate — now and later

Let’s explore how it works and why it matters more than ever.

What Is a Trust?

A trust is a legal entity that holds assets on behalf of a beneficiary.

In real estate, the most common type is a revocable living trust:

  • You place your home into the trust
  • You still have full control while alive
  • When you pass away, your successor trustee takes over — with no court, no delay, no confusion

Why Use a Trust Instead of Just a Will?

A will goes through probate — the court process that:

  • Takes 6–12+ months
  • Costs 3–8% of your estate
  • Is public and can be contested
  • May freeze property transfers or sales

A trust avoids all of that.
 Your property passes to heirs immediately and privately, just like you intended.

Bonus Benefits of a Trust

  • Incapacity protection: If you become unable to manage your affairs, your trust kicks in without court involvement
  • Multi-property planning: Easier to manage several homes or rental properties
  • Blended family clarity: You decide who gets what and when
  • Creditor protection (with advanced structures): Some trusts add legal shielding

How to Set Up a Trust for Real Estate

  • Work with an estate planning attorney
  • Create the trust and name your successor trustee
  • Fund the trust by transferring title of the property into the trust
  • Keep it updated if you refinance, sell, or buy more homes

Pro tip: Use one trust for multiple properties if you’re building a portfolio.

Bottom Line: A Trust Is the Key to a Smooth Transfer and Protected Legacy

If you own real estate and want to keep it in the family — or just keep things simple — a trust isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Let’s help you set it up right.

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