Hello ,

When it comes to estate planning, protecting real estate is one of the top priorities for many of our clients -- and for good reason. A home, vacation house, or rental property is often the most valuable asset people own. Without proper planning, your properties could be vulnerable to probate, creditors, or Medicaid recovery. 

This week on the Elder Law Report podcast, attorneys Jane Dearwester and Jordan McIntyre discussed practical strategies to protect your real estate and keep it within your family. 

Here's a quick look at what they covered:

🏡 Lady Bird Deeds: Keep full control of your property during life, avoid probate, and pass it directly to loved ones without court oversight or interference. 

(Available in North Carolina, not available in South Carolina.)

🔐 Trust Planning: Ideal for those with multiple properties or young/multiple beneficiaries. Trusts offer long-term control, privacy, and protection. 

🏢 LLCs for Investment Properties: Protect rental or commercial real estate by separating personal and business assets. For an extra layer of protection, combine an LLC with a trust. 

🌴 South Carolina Strategies: Since Lady Bird Deeds are not recognized in South Carolina, we use tools like joint tenancy and strategic ownership splits to achieve similar results. 

💬 "Trusts allow for long-term planning and provide extra protection and control," Jane shared. "I even used one in my own plan to protect my home for my son."

Thank you for reading our e-newsletter dedicated to protecting your assets and planning for long-term care. We look forward to assisting you with strategic legal solutions that ensure your peace of mind.

Greg McIntyre

Elder Law & Estate Planning Attorney 

P.S. Sharing is caring! Forward this newsletter to someone who may benefit from understanding the power of Revocable Living Trusts.