Estate Planning & Lady Bird Deeds

Plan Today, Protect Tomorrow

Estate planning is about more than just what happens after you're gone—it's about protecting your family, preserving your assets, and ensuring your wishes are honored. A comprehensive estate plan gives you control over your future and peace of mind today.

Whether you're just starting to think about estate planning or need to update an existing plan, Brandon T. Winn provides personalized guidance tailored to your family's unique needs and goals.

From simple wills to complex trusts to the increasingly popular Lady Bird deed, we'll help you understand your options and create a plan that works for you.

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"The best time to plan your estate was yesterday. The second best time is today."

What is a Lady Bird Deed?

A Lady Bird deed (also called an enhanced life estate deed) is a powerful estate planning tool that lets you transfer your home to your heirs while keeping full control during your lifetime.

✅ Keep Full Control

You retain complete ownership and control of your property. You can sell it, mortgage it, or change your mind at any time—no permission needed from the beneficiaries.

✅ Avoid Probate

When you pass away, the property automatically transfers to your named beneficiaries without going through probate. No court involvement, no delays, no extra costs.

✅ Protect Medicaid Eligibility

Unlike some other transfer methods, a Lady Bird deed doesn't disqualify you from Medicaid. The property isn't considered a gift, so there's no lookback period penalty.

✅ Tax Benefits

Your heirs receive a "stepped-up" tax basis, meaning they won't owe capital gains taxes on the property's appreciation during your lifetime if they sell it.

Our Estate Planning Services

📜 Wills & Codicils

Properly drafted wills that clearly express your wishes, name guardians for minor children, and designate who receives your property.

🏠 Lady Bird Deeds

Transfer your home to heirs automatically upon death while retaining full control and protecting Medicaid eligibility.

⚕️ Medical Power of Attorney

Designate someone you trust to make healthcare decisions for you if you become unable to make them yourself.

💼 Durable Power of Attorney

Authorize a trusted person to handle your financial affairs if you're incapacitated, avoiding the need for guardianship proceedings.

📋 Directive to Physicians

Also known as a living will, this document specifies your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment.

🔄 Beneficiary Reviews

We review your existing accounts and policies to ensure beneficiary designations align with your overall estate plan.

Feature	Lady Bird Deed	Regular Deed Transfer
Keep control of property	✓	✗
Avoid probate	✓	✓
Can sell/mortgage without permission	✓	✗
No Medicaid penalty	✓	✗
Stepped-up tax basis for heirs	✓	✗
Can change beneficiaries anytime	✓	✗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should consider a Lady Bird deed? +

Lady Bird deeds are ideal for homeowners who want to pass their property to heirs without probate, especially those concerned about Medicaid planning. They're particularly popular among seniors who want to protect their home while maintaining independence and control.

How much does estate planning cost? +

Costs vary based on the complexity of your situation and the documents needed. We offer affordable flat-fee packages for basic estate planning (will, powers of attorney, directive to physicians). Lady Bird deeds are typically a separate flat fee. Contact us for a free consultation and quote.

Can I change or revoke a Lady Bird deed? +

Yes! That's one of the biggest advantages. You can revoke the deed, change the beneficiaries, sell the property, or take out a mortgage—all without needing anyone's permission. You retain complete control until death.

What's the difference between a will and estate planning? +

A will is just one component of estate planning. A comprehensive estate plan also includes powers of attorney (financial and medical), healthcare directives, beneficiary designations, and potentially tools like Lady Bird deeds or trusts. Together, these documents protect you during life and after death.

When should I update my estate plan? +

Review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events: marriage, divorce, birth of children/grandchildren, death of a beneficiary, significant changes in assets, or moving to a new state. Laws change too, so periodic review ensures your plan remains effective.