Why Clearing Title Isn’t Always as Simple as It LooksrnrnWhen a loved one passes away, most people think the hardest part is the emotional loss, and that legally transferring property is just a matter of paperwork.rnrnBut often, that “paperwork” reveals something much more complicated:rnA deed that was never updated.rnA co-owner who passed away years ago without probate.rnA missing heir no one has heard from in decades.rnrnWe call this the “ghost owner” problem, and it’s one of the most common issues we see when real estate is inherited or being prepared for sale.
Reena Gulati Blog
Many families today hold real estate through LLCs for asset protection and liability reasons. At the same time, more and more are using revocable and irrevocable trusts as part of their estate plan to avoid probate, protect privacy, and plan for smooth wealth transfers.rnrnBut what happens when those two tools intersect?rnrnCan a trustee automatically step into the shoes of a deceased LLC member? Will the operating agreement recognize that trustee as a valid decision-maker? And what if it doesn’t?rnrnThese questions often come up during moments of transition—after the death of a parent, during a refinance, or when it’s time to sell inherited real estate. At that point, if the documents weren’t set up to speak to each other, the result is confusion, delay, and sometimes conflict.
Many families assume the home should always stay in the family. It represents memories, security, and legacy. But in my practice as a New York estate planning attorney, I often see how real estate can create more problems than it solves when it is not planned for properly.
Many people believe trusts are only for the ultra-wealthy, but they're actually valuable planning tools for many families. As a trust attorney serving clients throughout Long Island and New York, I often find that understanding trust income is a key concern for both trustees and beneficiaries.
Most people think a will is enough. It’s not, especially when your family is left sorting through court filings, unexpected delays, and costly legal fees after you're gone.rnrnA revocable living trust is one of the most powerful tools in estate planning, offering flexibility during your lifetime and simplicity after your death. Unlike a will, a revocable trust allows your chosen trustee to manage and distribute your assets without court intervention. That means no probate. No waiting. No confusion.
