Smart Estate Planning Starts With the Right Deed DON’T LET A TECHNICALITY DECIDE YOUR HOME’S FUTURE
only if the property is actually titled in the trust’s name. Unfortunately, this step is often missed. Simply referencing real estate in a trust document doesn’t change ownership. The deed itself must be updated for the plan to work as intended. Transferring Property During Your Life Some families choose to transfer property before death to simplify matters later. While this can be effective, it isn’t always straightforward. Tax consequences, future capital gains issues, and unintended financial impacts can arise if the transfer isn’t carefully planned. Before signing a new deed, it’s important to understand the whole picture. Putting Your Plan on Solid Ground Your home is often one of your most valuable and emotional assets. Making sure your deed aligns with your estate plan protects your family, preserves your intentions, and helps avoid complications down the road. Our team here at Merlino & Gonzalez helps homeowners bring clarity and confidence to their real estate and estate planning decisions. Contact us to make sure your plan is built to last.
Most people spend time thinking about wills and trusts but overlook one document that can quietly undo even the best estate plan: the property deed. How your home or real estate is titled determines what happens to it when you’re gone, and if that doesn’t match your intentions, your family could face delays, confusion, or unnecessary legal hurdles. Understanding How Property Ownership Really Works The way ownership is listed on a deed controls how property transfers. Some ownership structures allow real estate to pass instantly to a surviving owner, while others require court involvement before anything can happen.
When probate is involved, the process can be slow and stressful for loved ones who are already navigating a loss. Certain ownership arrangements are designed to keep things simple, especially for married couples. Others are better suited for co- owners who want flexibility and control over who inherits their share. Each option serves a different purpose, and choosing the wrong one can unintentionally override your estate planning goals. Trusts Only Work if the Deed Matches Many homeowners use revocable living trusts to avoid probate. It’s a smart strategy, but
HONEY MUSTARD PORK CHOPS MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
INGREDIENTS •
4 thick, boneless pork chops
• • •
1/4 cup stone-ground mustard
•
3 1/2 tsp garlic and herb seasoning, divided
1/4 cup fresh honey
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
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1 tsp sea salt
1 tbsp avocado oil
DIRECTIONS 1.
Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Pat pork chops dry before seasoning them with salt and 1 1/2 tsp of garlic and herb seasoning. 3. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat avocado oil over medium heat. 4. Sear pork chops in hot oil for 1–3 minutes on each side. 5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine mustard, honey, and remaining garlic and herb seasoning while the pork cooks. 6. Remove pork chops from skillet. Add honey mustard mixture to the skillet and mix. 7. Place pork chops back in skillet and cover with sauce. 8. Place pan in oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until pork reaches 145 F. 9. Set oven to broil for the final minute to allow the tops to caramelize and enjoy.
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