Example Scenario Obtain the Current Deed: Get a copy of your existing deed from the county recorder's office. Prepare a New Deed: Draft a grant deed transferring the property to “John Doe, as Trustee of The John Doe Living Trust, dated January 1, 2024.” Notarize the Deed: Sign the new deed before a notary public.
To transfer real property into your Trust, a new deed reflecting the name of the Trust must be executed, notarized and recorded with the County Recorder in the County where the property is located. Care must be taken that the exact legal description in the existing deed appears on the new deed.
Example Scenario Obtain the Current Deed: Get a copy of your existing deed from the county recorder's office. Prepare a New Deed: Draft a grant deed transferring the property to “John Doe, as Trustee of The John Doe Living Trust, dated January 1, 2024.” Notarize the Deed: Sign the new deed before a notary public.
One disadvantage of placing your house in a trust is the loss of direct ownership. Transferring your property to a revocable living trust makes the trust the legal owner. While you retain control as the trustee, this change in ownership may affect your ability to mortgage or refinance the property.
Parents and other family members who want to pass on assets during their lifetimes may be tempted to gift the assets. Although setting up an irrevocable trust lacks the simplicity of giving a gift, it may be a better way to preserve assets for the future.