Q: In September’s column , you mentioned that just having a power of attorney was no good if we should die. We also have a will that states our house is to go to our daughter. Is that good?
A: As usual, my disclaimer: I’m not an attorney, nor am I giving legal advice, and you should always consult an attorney regarding legal matters. While it’s good to have a will, your daughter would still have to go through probate to get the house because a will cannot transfer the ownership/title of real estate. If there were a quit claim deed, a life estate deed (aka lady bird deed) or a trust, then it would be a different story. Nowadays, with most homes and condos being worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not millions, spend a little time and money now to do some estate planning. It will