Should You Put Your Home in a Trust? A Guide for Rochester Homeowners

Published March 14th, 2025 by Klafehn, Heise & Johnson P.L.L.C

For many homeowners in Rochester, NY, estate planning includes the critical decision of how to protect their home for future generations. One of the most effective ways to manage and secure your property is by placing it in a trust. But is this the right choice for you?

At Klafehn, Heise & Johnson P.L.L.C., we help homeowners throughout Rochester, Brockport, and Monroe County make informed estate planning decisions that align with their financial goals and family needs. In this guide, we’ll explain the benefits of placing your home in a trust, how it differs from a will, and whether it’s the best option for you.

1. What Is a Trust, and How Does It Work?

A trust is a legal arrangement that allows a third party, known as a trustee, to hold and manage assets on behalf of designated beneficiaries. Unlike a will, which only takes effect after your passing, a trust can be set up and managed during your lifetime.

Types of Trusts for Homeowners

There are several types of trusts, but two common options for homeowners include:

Revocable Living Trust: Allows you to retain control over the property while you’re alive and smoothly transfers ownership to beneficiaries after your death, bypassing probate.
Irrevocable Trust: Once established, this type of trust cannot be easily altered. It provides greater protection against creditors and estate taxes but limits your ability to make changes.

Each type of trust offers different levels of control, protection, and tax benefits, so it’s essential to work with an estate planning attorney to determine which one is right for you. Contact us to discuss your options today.

2. Why Consider Putting Your Home in a Trust?

There are several advantages to placing your home in a trust, particularly if you want to protect your property, avoid probate, and simplify estate management.

1. Avoiding Probate

When a property is passed down through a will, it must go through probate, which can be a lengthy and costly legal process.
A home held in a trust transfers directly to the named beneficiaries without court involvement, reducing delays and expenses.

2. Protecting Your Privacy

Probate is a public process, meaning details of your estate could become accessible to others.
A trust keeps many details about you and your affairs private, protecting sensitive information.

3. Ensuring a Smooth Transition for Your Family

If you become incapacitated, a revocable trust allows a designated trustee to manage your home and finances without court intervention.
This avoids the need for a court-appointed guardian and ensures your home is handled according to your wishes.

4. Potential Tax Benefits

While most homeowners in Rochester and Monroe County won’t be affected by federal estate taxes, placing your home in certain types of trusts may provide tax advantages for large estates.
An irrevocable trust may help reduce estate tax liability and protect assets from creditors.

5. Protecting Your Home from Long-Term Care Costs

If you ever need Medicaid for long-term care, the value of your home could impact eligibility.
Transferring your home to an irrevocable Medicaid asset protection trust at least five (5) years before you need care may shield it from being counted as an asset, helping you qualify for benefits while preserving your home for heirs.

Want to explore whether a trust is right for your home? Schedule a consultation with us today.

3. Trust vs. Will: Which Is Right for Your Home?

If you're deciding between a will and a trust, consider these key differences:

Feature	Will	Trust
Goes Through Probate?	Yes	No
Becomes Effective?	After Death	Can Take Effect During Lifetime
Controls How Assets Are Managed?	No	Yes
Privacy Protection?	No (Probate Is Public)	Yes
Helps with Incapacity Planning?	No	Yes
Provides Medicaid Asset Protection?	No	Yes (With an Irrevocable Trust)

While a will is simpler to create, a trust provides greater protection and flexibility, making it a preferred choice for many Rochester homeowners.

4. When Should You Consider Putting Your Home in a Trust?

Not every homeowner needs a trust, but you should strongly consider one if:

You want to avoid probate and simplify asset distribution.
You own multiple properties and need better estate management.
You want to protect your home from nursing home costs.
You want to provide clear instructions for how your property is handled if you become incapacitated.
You have specific wishes for how your property is used after your passing.

If any of these apply to you, a trust could be the best option. Talk to our estate planning attorneys today.

5. How to Get Started with a Trust in Rochester, NY

Setting up a trust requires careful planning to ensure it aligns with your long-term goals. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Consult an Estate Planning Attorney

Work with an attorney who understands New York estate laws and the best trust options for your situation.
Klafehn, Heise & Johnson P.L.L.C. can help customize a trust to fit your needs.

Step 2: Choose a Trustee and Beneficiaries

Select a trustee to manage the trust according to your instructions.
Identify who will inherit your home and under what conditions.

Step 3: Transfer the Home to the Trust

Your attorney will help you draft and execute the trust agreement.
A new deed will be created to legally transfer your home into the trust.

Step 4: Maintain and Update the Trust

As life circumstances change, your trust should be reviewed and updated as needed.
Regular estate plan reviews ensure that your trust continues to meet your goals.

Need help setting up a trust for your home? Schedule an appointment today.

Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Home

A trust can be a powerful tool to protect your home, simplify inheritance, and provide peace of mind for you and your family. If you're considering placing your home in a trust, Klafehn, Heise & Johnson P.L.L.C. can guide you through the process.

Start planning today—contact us now to secure your home’s future and ensure your estate is protected.

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information about estate planning in New York State and should not be construed as legal advice. Each individual’s situation is unique, and laws can vary. For personalized legal guidance, contact the attorneys at Klafehn, Heise & Johnson P.L.L.C. in Rochester, NY. You can reach us here. Portions of this article are considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING under the New York State Unified Court System Rules of Professional Conduct (22 NYCRR Part 1200). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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