5 Easy Estate Planning Tips to Help You Plan for the Future

21 February 2019

Whether your estate is worth $10,000 or 1 million dollars, you’ll want to have an estate plan in place to make sure your assets go to the right people. If you die unexpectedly without a will, much of your estate will get eaten up in taxes and lawyer fees to settle the estate and the money may not end up where you intend it to.

Keep reading for 5 easy estate planning tips to make sure your affairs are in order should anything happen.

5 Estate Planning Tips You Should Take Now:

Did you know that more than half of all Americans don’t have a will? As unpleasant as it may be to think about planning for your death, it’s necessary to protect your assets and your family. Take steps now to make sure your family doesn’t have to stress about dealing with your assets upon your death.

Here are some estate planning tips to make the process easy and painless.

1. Determine What Assets You Have:

Before writing your will, going to an attorney, or planning your estate, you need to know what you have. Take an inventory of all of your assets and liabilities to determine what you are worth.

Property, retirement accounts, bank accounts, investments, and life insurance policies. You’ll need to list all of your assets to determine who gets what and how much of it they get. Some assets, such as a business, will require special consideration in your will or estate plan.

2. Decide Who Gets What and How It’s Distributed:

Now that you know what you have, you’ll need to decide who (or what) your beneficiaries will be. Spouses, children, other family members, charitable organizations, etc. who get any part of your estate will be designated.

Not only do you need to decide who gets your assets, but you will also need to specify how much or what percentage they get. If you have life insurance through your employer or another policy or other retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries, make sure you keep those updated.

If you get married, divorced, or have more children, you may want to modify the stated beneficiaries on those policies.

3. Take Steps to Minimize Estate Taxes:

If there might be significant taxes that your beneficiaries will owe, you can take steps to minimize these taxes ahead of time. You could leave taxable assets to charities or other non-profit organizations, take out life insurance policies to cover any estate taxes, or gift money to your beneficiaries before your death.

4. Choose Who Will Run the Estate:

You’ll need to choose an executor of your will. This could be a family member or an attorney, depending on the complexity of your estate. Choose someone whom you trust.

You also will want to select someone to have the power of attorney if you become incapacitated. A health care directive is also smart to have, as this will allow your designee to make major medical decisions on your behalf should you be unable to.

5. Consider Hiring an Estate Planning Expert:

Consider hiring a probate attorney to handle all of this for you. They will walk you through the process, advise you on the best course of action, and then handle any issues with the estate after your passing.

The Bottom Line:

Although no one wants to think about their death, making sure your assets are protected and that your beneficiaries are taken care of is a smart move to make. Use these estate planning tips to get yourself started.

For more lifestyle tips and resources, explore some of our other blog posts.

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Ariana Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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Why do modern people prefer Coliving to other housing options?

We have often been told that more of us will live in cities and that cities will be bigger. But what we have not seen is how this will happen. While there is a growing awareness among the public, politicians, developers, and architects about the need to improve living conditions in cities, little is being done. Coliving is still a new concept, but the fast-growing Coliving industry aims to redefine the way we live. Coliving offers shared living spaces, sharing kitchen facilities, sharing laundry, and cleaning services. The potential cost savings are significant, although the initial start-up costs are high. Living in smaller spaces is a cultural norm in the affluent West. But until recently, people in most developing countries had few options beyond informal settlements or slums. Now, thanks to urbanization, millions of people are leaving rural areas and moving into cities. Urbanization is speeding up in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, but the trend has been visible in developed countries, too. In 1960, 70 percent of the world lived in cities; by 2050, it will be 75 percent. Read this blog content about coliving from sharedeasy.club. History of coliving In the 1950s, we began to think of space as a commodity. At first, we thought of it as a commodity to be bought and sold, like a plot of land or a building. Then, we came to think of it as a utility, like electricity or water. Then, as the idea of sustainability grew, people began to think of space as a vital resource. Finally, in the 21st century, we came to think of space as a service. That is, a space is a service, like a utility, that provides shelter, privacy, and community. Co-living also falls under a relatively new concept of Housing as a service. It is disrupting the way we screen, monitor, and select housing. Co-living is seen as a promising potential from industry experts from different market leaders as the real estate developers, hospitality companies, and investment community. Big names in the retail- and automotive industry are adding co-living to their portfolios. Related Reads: Smaller Apartment Downsizing Hacks Coliving benefits SharedEasy launches its new spaces which is an innovation lab based in New York. Here are some main benefits of coliving: Co-living spaces are breaking free of traditional housing models. They provide living spaces with shared amenities, such as gyms, cafeterias, and common areas. Co-living spaces are often in buildings with 100 to 400 rooms. Co-living is not a new trend, but a new business model, with unprecedented demand. Co-living spaces offer more than just a place to sleep. They provide shared amenities like gyms and cafeterias. Co-living spaces are viewed as an alternative to conventional housing, either because of cost or lifestyle issues. Co-living spaces are growing in popularity. An increasing number of millennials are choosing these spaces over conventional homes. Urbanization brings with it many benefits. But rapid urbanization also brings with it many new problems. Often, people are priced out of the housing market. They are forced to live in informal settlements or slums. They lack adequate access to infrastructures such as water and sanitation. And because of the strain on city infrastructure, cities are left vulnerable during natural disasters. “Build it and they will come” is a noble sentiment. But it doesn’t work in practice. Related Reads: Property Investment Worths Coliving in practice Housing is a basic human right. For most of us, our housing is the biggest single expense we have every month. But building housing is expensive. Many cities are at or very near their historic peak population levels. The East Coast already has more housing than it can reasonably absorb, with the result being that half the population cannot reasonably afford a home. And California, which has experienced a spectacular population boom in recent decades, has a serious housing shortage. Insufficient housing is one reason why young people, especially, are leaving cities for the suburbs. By some estimates, 30% of young people between the ages of 18 and 34 live with their parents, compared to 7% of older people. Co-living is a response to this problem. It’s a way of living that takes advantage of the economies of scale in housing. Instead of people having to buy or rent their own house, they live together. In a normal house, people generally have private rooms, but in co-living arrangements, they share a bathroom and a kitchen. Co-living has many advantages. Now people can live near their best neighbors, and they can also share costs. And they do not have to be locked into a long-term contract with a landlord. But it also has some disadvantages. First, co-living is not for everybody. Some people want privacy. For these people, co-living is probably not a good idea. Second, the co-living companies need to manage a large number of people, and this requires a lot of staff. This is a considerable expense. But most importantly, co-living does not solve the fundamental problem. We need to build a lot more housing. Why is coliving preferred by millennials? Co-living, in this sense, is an evolution of what millennials have come to think of as normal: a communal living arrangement that mirrors the way social media functions. It’s both social and intimate, it’s both private and communal. And it’s a community where members do not compete with one another for space; instead, they collaborate, sharing common spaces and amenities, from kitchens and living rooms to bedrooms and bathrooms. Conclusion Co-living in particular is the logical consequence of sharing everything online. The idea of shared living spaces has been around for quite a while. The Victorian fascination with communal living and with communal service — the belief that community was the key to happiness — was reflected in the rise of the boarding house and the shared house. Read Also: Federal Government and the Subprime Mortgage Crisis They Created How Much Will You Pay To See Landmarks During Lockdown?

The Power Of Heavy Machinery In The Construction Industry

Construction is on the rise across the United States. From single-family homes and apartment complexes to commercial projects, reports show that construction companies are going to have their work cut out for them in the years to come. Having the right equipment on hand to complete that work is the key to their success. Heavy machinery holds a great deal of power in the construction industry, making it essential for several reasons. Effective Project Completion Being able to effectively complete projects is one of the most basic benefits of having a diverse heavy equipment supply at a construction company's disposal. Without the proper equipment for the jobs at hand, construction companies are bound to experience problems and delays. They may spend more time than necessary trying to complete tasks with inadequate equipment, which could impact their clients' timelines as well as their own profits. With the heavy machinery they need, construction crews can complete projects faster and more effectively while remaining on budget. They'll be able to use their resources more efficiently, possibly reducing labor and material costs. Each piece of machinery has the potential to improve a company's performance, productivity, and bottom line. Cost-Effectiveness Cost-effectiveness is also a key consideration. Trying to complete a project with outdated, broken-down equipment can cause countless problems. Those include costly delays, wasted materials, increased workloads for crew members, and quality issues to name a few. Heavy machinery that's in good condition and suited to the specific requirements of a project greatly reduces those problems and the risks that come with them. It also reduces repair costs to further ramp up cost-effectiveness. Improved Safety Safety is crucial in the construction industry. Workers are up against numerous hazards on construction sites. Using the wrong types of equipment to complete certain tasks can exacerbate those dangers. Working with equipment that's in poor condition and prone to breakdowns makes matters even worse. Having the right heavy machinery on-site reduces the risks of injuries. Equipment that's in good repair improves worker safety as well. Versatility Having a variety of equipment on hand gives construction companies more versatility too. It allows them to accept projects with confidence that they'll be able to complete them. They won't have to limit themselves to only the projects they're equipped to handle. It also gives them the power to adapt to challenges and unexpected developments they face on the job. With the right heavy machinery in their arsenal, their projects can go smoothly no matter how many problems arise along the way. Professional Reputation Companies that have a selection of heavy machinery to work with tend to have more positive reputations as well. Those who are ill-equipped to handle certain jobs often end up with numerous complaints against them and low client satisfaction rates. On the other hand, construction companies that have the equipment they need to meet clients' expectations are more likely to develop reputations for excellence. That, in turn, can generate repeat business and draw in a steady stream of new clients. Equipping Yourself for Success Several types of heavy machinery are available for construction companies to take advantage of. Though not all companies need every piece of equipment on the market, having an extensive selection to work with can be advantageous. It helps construction crews to complete projects more safely and effectively. It also gives them greater versatility and leads to improved cost-effectiveness. All those factors enable them to better meet clients' demands and can help bolster their professional reputations. Read Also: Construction Safety Systems: Promoting A Safer Industry Is Prefabricated Metal The Future Of Warehouse Construction? 7 Common Construction Project Management Problems

Why Is Property Valuation Important For Sellers?

Selling a property is a significant financial decision, and ensuring you get the right price for your asset is crucial. One of the most important steps in the selling process is property valuation. property valuation in London is basically an assessment of the property's worth conducted by a qualified and impartial professional. Buying property In London Buying a property in London is an exciting and potentially lucrative venture, but it comes with unique considerations and challenges. As one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities, London offers a diverse range of properties to suit various tastes and budgets. The London property market is known for its dynamic nature, where demand often outstrips supply. As a result, prices can be high, making it essential for prospective buyers to conduct thorough research and engage in smart financial planning. Factors like location, property type, and proximity to public transport and amenities significantly influence property prices. For buyers, working with experienced real estate agents who possess in-depth knowledge of the London market is invaluable. Agents can guide buyers through the process, offer insights on different neighbourhoods, and negotiate deals on their behalf. Additionally, legal and financial considerations are critical when purchasing a property in London. Buyers must understand the legalities of property ownership, associated taxes, and stamp duty charges. Seeking advice from solicitors and financial advisors is essential to avoid potential pitfalls. Despite the challenges, investing in a property in London can be a rewarding endeavour. The city's diverse cultural scene, excellent educational institutions, and thriving job market make it a desirable location for individuals and families alike. With careful planning, research, and professional guidance, buyers can find their ideal property in this vibrant metropolis and enjoy the benefits of owning real estate in one of the world's most iconic cities. In this blog, we will explore the importance and benefits of property valuation for sellers. Accurate Pricing Setting the right price for your property is essential to attract potential buyers. Overpricing may deter interested parties while underpricing could lead to significant financial losses. A property valuation by an experienced valuer helps sellers determine the fair market value of their property based on factors such as location, size, condition, and recent market trends. This information empowers sellers to set a realistic and competitive asking price. Moreover, watching investment videos can also provide valuable insights into pricing strategies and market dynamics, aiding sellers in making informed decisions about their property's value. Confidence In Negotiations Having a professional property valuation report in hand can boost a seller's confidence during negotiations. When prospective buyers make offers, sellers can rely on the valuation report to support their asking price. This objective assessment acts as a strong bargaining tool, allowing sellers to defend their prices with facts and figures. Faster Selling Process Accurate pricing resulting from a property valuation can expedite the selling process. Well-priced properties are more likely to attract genuine buyers quickly, reducing the time the property remains on the market. Conversely, overpriced properties may linger, resulting in increased carrying costs and further price reductions down the line. Avoiding Legal Complications In some regions, sellers are required by law to provide a property valuation report to the buyer. An accurate valuation helps in avoiding disputes or legal issues that may arise from disagreements over the property's value. By providing a comprehensive and unbiased valuation, sellers can foster a transparent and smooth transaction. Enhancing Marketing Strategies A property valuation report can reveal the unique selling points of a property and its potential value-add opportunities. Sellers can leverage this information to tailor their marketing strategies and highlight the property's most appealing features. An attractive marketing campaign that aligns with the property's true value increases the likelihood of attracting serious buyers. Understanding Property Investment For some sellers, the property being sold is an investment. A property valuation can provide insights into the property's current market value and potential for future appreciation. This information can be valuable for decision-making regarding reinvestment or diversification of assets. Justifying Higher Offers Occasionally, sellers may receive higher offers from buyers who believe the property is worth more than its listing price. In such cases, a property valuation report can serve as an impartial assessment to justify the higher offer, allowing the seller to capitalise on the property's true value. Property valuation is an indispensable tool that offers numerous benefits to sellers. From helping set the right price to enhancing negotiations and marketing strategies, property valuation empowers sellers throughout the selling process. By obtaining a professional property valuation report, sellers can ensure a smoother, faster, and more rewarding transaction, making it a wise investment before entering the competitive real estate market. Read Also: Mold Growth At Home: What You Should Know And What You Can Do Things First-Time Homebuyers Need To Know About Hiring Realtors 10 Best Ways To Find Cheap Homes To Flip

5 Easy Estate Planning Tips to Help You Plan for the Future

5 Estate Planning Tips You Should Take Now:

1. Determine What Assets You Have:

2. Decide Who Gets What and How It’s Distributed:

3. Take Steps to Minimize Estate Taxes:

4. Choose Who Will Run the Estate:

5. Consider Hiring an Estate Planning Expert:

The Bottom Line:

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Ariana Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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Related

Why do modern people prefer Coliving to other housing options?

The Power Of Heavy Machinery In The Construction Industry

Why Is Property Valuation Important For Sellers?

5 Easy Estate Planning Tips to Help You Plan for the Future

5 Estate Planning Tips You Should Take Now:

1. Determine What Assets You Have:

2. Decide Who Gets What and How It’s Distributed:

3. Take Steps to Minimize Estate Taxes:

4. Choose Who Will Run the Estate:

5. Consider Hiring an Estate Planning Expert:

The Bottom Line:

Share this Article

How to Choose the Right Commercial Collection Agency

7 Expert Tips In Finding The Best Mortgage Broker In Vancouver

Tags

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related