09/15/2026
Trust vs. Probate: Why Estate Planning Matters for Homeowners
This week I'm closing on 2 listings where I represent Estates selling the properties. Both have great stories behind them, which I'll share once the closings are done.
But first, I want to highlight why Estate Planning matters so much when it comes to owning a home (or any real estate). These two sales perfectly illustrate the difference between having a Will (which always involves Probate Court) and having a Trust (which doesn't).
Timeline to close with NO estate plan, or a Will only:
1. List the house, subject to Probate approval
2. Accept an offer contingent on Probate approval
3. Attorney schedules a motion hearing (5–8 weeks, depending on county caseload)
4. Tentative closing set for 7–10 days after the court order... unless
5. A 21-day appeal waiting period applies for other interested parties
🔑 Total time to close from offer acceptance: 8–11 weeks (2–3.5 months)!
Timeline to close with a Trust or a Lady Bird Deed:
1. List the house for sale
2. Accept an offer
🏡 Close in the usual 3–5 weeks (1 month or less)
A Trust typically costs $1,500–$2,000 through an attorney depending on your situtation. A Lady Bird Deed costs much less and works just as well in the right situation.
This is your sign to call an estate planning attorney and figure out what happens to your house when you're gone. We all will die eventually — and you owe it to the people you leave behind to have a plan for settling your estate.
Always look for referrals from people you trust. If you need one, comment TRUST and I'll send you the attorneys I've worked with — and trust — with your Trust!
