I’m not an attorney—but after years in real estate, I’ve seen firsthand how missing or outdated documents can bring a sale to a complete stop.

Most people don’t avoid estate planning on purpose. They think:

  • “I already have a trust.”
  • “My spouse knows what I want.”
  • “Everything is taken care of.”

And sometimes… it isn’t.

Let me share a few real-life situations (details changed for privacy) that are happening right now.

When There’s No Will—and the Past Shows Up

A fellow Realtor is working with a widow who wants to sell her home after her husband passed away. Simple enough… until it wasn’t.

There was no will.

After his death, she learned her husband had a child from many years ago—long before their marriage. Now that child may have a legal claim to the property.

What could have been a straightforward sale has turned into:

  • Legal delays
  • Uncertainty about ownership
  • Either months of probate… or a negotiated settlement

All because nothing was documented.

When a Trust Exists… But the Homes Aren’t in It

Another client believed he had done everything right. He created a trust years ago and assumed his multiple homes were properly titled.

They weren’t.

Now:

  • He has six homes he cannot sell
  • The original trust document can’t be located
  • The attorney who created it can’t be found
  • He’s been working with a new attorney for over six months trying to untangle it

This isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about thinking something was done when it wasn’t fully completed.

The Common Thread

In every one of these cases:

  • There was no will, or
  • Documents existed but weren’t verified, updated, or properly executed

The result?

  • Delays
  • Legal costs
  • Stress during already emotional times
  • Real estate transactions that simply cannot move forward

A Loving Reminder (From Someone Who Sees This Weekly)

I’m not an attorney—but here’s what I’ve learned:

✔️ Write down what you want
✔️ Put it in a legal document
✔️ Make sure titles, deeds, and trusts match your intentions
✔️ Have it reviewed—then reviewed again

Life changes. Families change. Laws change. Your documents should too.

Final Thought

Estate planning isn’t about being wealthy or expecting the worst. It’s about making sure the people you love aren’t left trying to piece things together later.

If you own property—especially multiple properties—please take the time to document your wishes and have them double-checked by a qualified professional.

And if a home is involved during any life transition, I’m always here to help guide you through the real estate side of things.

 

For all your real estate needs, get Jacque.