Transferring assets into a trust is a common estate planning strategy. While most people are familiar with transferring personal assets like cars or jewelry into a trust, fewer are aware that it's also possible - and often very advantageous - to transfer income-generating properties like multi-family housing buildings into a trust. This blog post will guide you through the process.
Understanding Trusts
A trust is a legal entity created to hold ownership of an individual's assets, including real estate. Trusts are managed by a trustee for the benefit of the trust's beneficiaries. There are multiple types of trusts, but the most common are revocable and irrevocable trusts.
Why Transfer Multi-family Housing Buildings into a Trust?
The main reasons to transfer ownership of multi-family housing buildings into a trust are to avoid probate, protect against liabilities, maintain privacy, and plan for succession. Specifically, for property investors, placing real estate assets into a trust allows for an organized, controlled transfer of wealth.
Setting Up a Trust for Multi-family Housing Buildings
- Choose the type of trust: Depending on your circumstances and goals, you might choose a revocable trust (which can be changed) or an irrevocable trust (which cannot be changed without the consent of the trustee and beneficiaries).
- Select a trustee: This person or entity will manage the trust's assets. This could be you, a trusted individual, or a professional trustee.
- Create the trust document: This legal document lays out the terms of the trust, identifies the trustee and beneficiaries, and describes how the assets are to be managed and distributed.
- Fund the trust: This involves transferring ownership of the multi-family housing buildings into the trust.
Transferring Multi-family Housing Buildings into a Trust
- Appraise the property: Obtain a professional appraisal of the multi-family housing buildings to establish their fair market value.
- Title transfer: You must change the title of the property to reflect the trust as the new owner. This typically involves drafting a new deed.
- Change insurance policy: The insurance policy for the properties should be updated to list the trust as the owner.
- Record the deed: Record the new deed with the appropriate county office to make the transfer official.
Getting Professional Help
Given the complexities and potential tax implications of transferring multi-family housing buildings into a trust, it's advisable to work with legal and financial professionals. They can help ensure you choose the right type of trust, properly transfer the title, and navigate any potential issues that might arise.
Conclusion
Transferring ownership of multi-family housing buildings into a trust is a significant decision that can have profound implications for your estate plan. But with careful planning and professional guidance, it can provide protection, privacy, and peace of mind.
