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Elder Law Essentials: What Your Family Needs Before You Downsize
Description
What are the essential estate planning steps you should take before downsizing your home?
In this special episode, Kanani Briggs, Lead Agent and Mentor at The Curtin Team and guide for individuals navigating the downsizing journey, sits down with Mike Bascom, Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney at Bascom Law. Together, they explore why estate planning is an essential part of preparing for life's next chapter, from organizing important documents to ensuring your wishes are clearly documented before making a move. Drawing on his extensive experience in estate planning, trusts, and elder law, Mike shares practical strategies for avoiding common pitfalls and protecting both your assets and your family's peace of mind. This episode is a must-listen for retirees, older adults, and their families who want to simplify the downsizing process while making informed decisions for the future.
Key Takeaways:
● Review or create your estate plan before you downsize. Downsizing is the ideal time to ensure your wills, powers of attorney, and other legal documents accurately reflect your current wishes.
● Don't wait for a health crisis to start planning. Many families delay estate planning until an emergency occurs, but taking action early gives you greater control over important decisions.
● Simplify your life by organizing important records. Gathering financial documents, legal paperwork, passwords, and key account information into one accessible location makes life significantly easier for your loved ones.
● Thoughtful planning can prevent family conflict. Clearly documenting how sentimental belongings and assets should be distributed helps reduce misunderstandings and disputes among heirs.
● Downsizing is about planning for your future, not giving up your past. Making the move while you're still able to choose where and how you live allows you to enjoy the next stage of life on your own terms.
Connect with Kanani Briggs
www.curtinteam.com/agents/kanani-briggs
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kananibriggs/
Connect with Mike Bascom: