Establishing a trust and transferring ownership of a primary residence into it involves legally changing the title of the property. The homeowner, acting as the grantor, creates a trust document, names beneficiaries, and appoints a trustee to manage the assets according to the trust’s terms. Deeds are then executed to reflect the trust as the new owner of the home, effectively removing it from the grantor’s individual name.
This action offers several potential advantages, including avoidance of probate upon the homeowner’s death, which can save time and money for the heirs. Additionally, it can provide a layer of asset protection, shielding the property from certain creditors or legal judgments. Historically, individuals have utilized this strategy as a key component of estate planning to ensure a smoother transfer of wealth and to address complex family situations.