Now we know it's not just seniors, these could be things that most of us don't want to talk about. Yet why not? 
Only four of every 10 adults in the U.S. have a trust or a will. It's not surprising-most of us prefer not to think about our own mortality. But to be sure your wishes are carried out, and also reduce the risk of confusion by your heirs or family members fighting over their perceived inheritance, you need a will, or better yet a trust.
Some things to consider, survey all of your finances and assets. Be sure you know what you (or more specifically your estate) could owe upon your death. And remember, if your don't plan for your estate, your state will. That's true at least in California, if you don't have a will, the state has one for you. So we all know you can't take it with you, so spend it all or do it right, and do it now!
Estate Planning: An Overview Guide
Who will inherit your property when you die? What kind of medical treatments will you want to receive - or avoid - if you become critically ill? Thinking about these questions - before illness or death strike - is what estate planning is all about.
- Planning your estate means:
- Talking to family members now to decide how to handle your financial and medical affairs if you become incapable of making your own decisions.
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Working with an attorney now. Draw up a will or establish a trust that will distribute your property according to your wishes after you die.
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Making other important decisions now. That way, your loved ones won't be confused or burdened with financial troubles when you can no longer provide for them.
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To be a successful estate planner, you must study your options carefully. Be sure to consult with appropriate experts.
So now as a senior, 55+, you've worked hard and paid your dues over the years. You may have special concerns or needs when it comes to matters of real estate. Lynda Eisenmann is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, SRES. A SRES is a professional who has completed a series of educational requirements demonstrating expertise and knowledge when it comes to representing seniors in real estate. See more at Senior Real Estate Specialists to see how a SRES could help you.
Lynda is a Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) who is experienced and knowledgeable in meeting specific needs of a senior, those who are 55+. In addition, Lynda's three decades of real estate experience can make all the difference in the world to you or your loved one. Lynda has also created a senior real estate guide, If your 55 or 105 this guide is for you. Contact Lynda call or text Lynda directly, or email at Lynda@PreferredHomeBrokers.com
This is the third in a series of Senior Real Estate articles by Lynda Eisenmann, SRES.
View the first in the series, The Right Move at the Right Time, and watch later for the "Million Dollar Question" for Seniors When it Comes to Selling Your Home ~ Organizational Home Selling Help for Seniors ~ Things Some Seniors Don't Want to Talk About ~ Family Ties- or view Sharing the Decision vs. Going Solo ~ or The Chicken or the Egg-Which Comes First? ~ Not Ready to Move, or "Over My Dead Body" ...Exploring Other Options ~
If you're a senior... or you know of a senior who needs help with real estate, check out CaliforniaSeniorRealEstate.com for great senior real estate information.
*This is not to be construed as legal advice, be sure to consult with the proper professional.
Lynda...
In my little world the ones who don't like having to deal with this topic is of course my Sons.
They're such Babies when I start talking Seniority or lack of :)
TLW...ROAR!
Lynda - this has been a great series. So much good information to help seniors - maybe you should be teaching the SRES classes.
Jeff
TLW ~ Really, my kids and I joke about it every now and then.
Patricia ~ Thanks.
Jeff ~ Thank you, actually I'd love to audit the course again myself, it's been a while for me.
Lisa ~ Good question, as far as I know it's a physical class where you need to be present. One of my long-time broker friends teaches it in SoCal so I'll ask him if he know. BTW, I had not idea of your illness, I'm so sorry to hear about that.
Hi Terii ~ Good hearing from you you, I'm in agreement about a great estate attorney, it can meke things like this much easier.
Bill ~ You're right, but we're all going to go someday, right?
Hey Kaye ~ Makes sense to me too.
Hi Lisa ~ Very good point. I think we've all see that happen from time to time. Well said, I'll be sure to incorporate that into my senior guide, thank you!