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Dear New York Homeowner, Transfer-on-Death deeds commonly called TOD Deeds have become an increasingly popular estate planning tool in New York. The appeal is obvious: name a beneficiary on your deed, and when you pass away, the property transfers to them automatically. No probate. No court. Simple, right? Not exactly. What nobody tells you upfront is what happens after the homeowner dies and what title companies in New York are now requiring before that property can actuall

Owning a co-op in New York City isn’t just an investment, it’s a commitment to navigating some of the most complex estate planning rules around. Unlike traditional real estate, transferring a co-op to heirs or into a trust requires careful strategy and cooperation from the building’s Board of Directors. This guide will help clarify how estate planning, trusts, and co-op ownership intersect, so you can protect your New York co-op apartment and make sure your wishes are honored

So, you’ve finally made it mortgage paid, house looking good, and you’re thinking, “It’s time to put the kids’ names on the deed, so they’ll avoid probate and headaches down the road.” Sounds simple, right? But before you grab a pen (or call your lawyer), let’s pump the brakes and talk about why this “good deed” might backfire in the long run. The Good Intentions Trap Of course, you love your kids and want to make life easier for them. Adding them to your home’s deed feels

Big news for New Yorkers: as of July 19, 2024, Transfer on Death (TOD) deeds are officially here! If you’ve been wondering if there’s an easier way to leave your home to loved ones without court delays, this is a big win. At Sammartino & Sultan Law Group, we’re excited to break down how TOD deeds work, what makes them awesome, and reasons you might want to chat with an estate planning attorney before signing anything. What’s Changed? No more jumping through hoops just to ke

Real estate is often the biggest part of a family’s wealth, so it deserves careful planning. Estate planning for property is not just about who gets the house or rental when you die. It is also about protecting those properties from lawsuits, creditors, and other surprises during your lifetime. Why Real Estate Asset Protection Matters If someone is hurt on your rental property, or a dispute leads to a lawsuit, everything you own in your name could be at risk. That may inclu

If you’re in the middle of buying a home, there’s a good chance you’ve already heard about “locking in your interest rate.” With rates fluctuating day to day, locking your rate might seem like a no-brainer, a little relief in an otherwise stressful process. But before you jump in and freeze that rate, let’s talk! As real estate attorneys working in New York, we see it all: delayed closings, unexpected paperwork issues, the works. Here’s something we can’t stress enough DO N