Should You Keep a Property in Trust When Selling?

As an AI language model, I can provide a blog post on the reasons to keep a property in trust when selling or remove a property from a trust before selling. However, I cannot provide real-life scenario examples as I do not have access to personal information.

 

When considering selling a property that is held in a trust, there are a few things to consider. One of the most important factors is whether or not to keep the property in the trust during the sale process. Here, we’ll discuss the reasons to keep a property in trust when selling and reasons to remove a property from trust before selling.

 

 

Reasons to keep a property in trust when selling

 

  • Asset protection: One of the primary reasons for using a trust in estate planning is to protect assets from creditors and lawsuits. Keeping the property in the trust during the sale process can help ensure that the proceeds from the sale are protected from potential creditors or legal judgments. For example, if the grantor is a doctor or a business owner and there is a risk of a malpractice lawsuit or business dispute, the trust can provide an additional layer of protection.

 

  • Tax planning: Depending on the grantor’s tax situation, keeping the property in trust until after the sale could help minimize taxes owed on the proceeds from the sale. For example, if the grantor has a high net worth and the property has appreciated significantly, selling the property while it’s in the trust could result in a lower capital gains tax rate.

 

  • Control over distribution: If the grantor has specific wishes for how the proceeds from the sale are distributed, keeping the property in the trust can ensure those wishes are carried out. For example, the grantor may want the proceeds to be distributed to specific beneficiaries or used for a specific purpose, such as funding education for grandchildren.

 

 

 

Reasons to remove a property from trust before selling

 

  • Tax implications: Depending on the type of trust and the tax laws in effect at the time of the sale, selling a property that is in a trust could have tax implications. If the trust is a revocable living trust, removing the property from the trust before selling it can help avoid potential tax issues. For example, if the property was placed in the trust when the grantor was alive, it may not receive a step-up in basis upon the grantor’s death, potentially resulting in a higher capital gains tax upon sale.

 

  • Ease of sale: Some potential buyers may be hesitant to purchase a property that is in a trust due to concerns about the legal implications and complexities of the trust. Removing the property from the trust could make the sale process simpler and more straightforward. For example, if the buyer is obtaining a mortgage to purchase the property, the lender may require the property to be removed from the trust before approving the loan.

 

  •  Flexibility: If the grantor no longer needs the protections provided by the trust, removing the property from the trust could provide more flexibility in managing the property and its proceeds. For example, the grantor may want to use the proceeds to make a large charitable donation, which may be easier to accomplish if the property is no longer in the trust.

 

In conclusion, whether to keep a property in trust when selling or remove it from trust before selling depends on the grantor’s specific circumstances and goals. Consulting with a qualified attorney and other financial professionals can help ensure that the best course of action is taken based on the grantor’s needs and objectives.

 

 

Legal Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or tax advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the blog post or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the blog post for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

 

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this blog post.

 

It is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional before making any decisions regarding a trust or the sale of a property held in a trust. The information contained in this blog post should not be used as a substitute for professional advice or judgment.

Brad McDaniel
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