How to Sell a Property Held in Trust? (Nashville)

Last Updated: 4/ 11/ 2023

As a trustee, you are responsible for managing the assets held in the trust for the benefit of the beneficiaries. One of a trustee’s key responsibilities is selling property held in trust when it is in the best interest of the beneficiaries. However, the process of selling property held in trust can be way more difficult and involves various legal and practical considerations that trustees must navigate.

So, if you are the one who is looking to sell a house in a trust, we got you covered.

What Does “Property in Trust” Mean?

A legal agreement is where a trustee holds and manages assets or property for the benefit of a beneficiary. Trusts are versatile tools used for various purposes, such as estate planning, charitable giving, and asset protection.

Real estate, investment accounts, cash, life insurance policies, and personal property like art, furniture, or jewelry are some of the common items held in trust. Let the trust help you protect your assets and secure your future.

What are the Main Types of Trust?

Trust is of different types described below.

A Revocable Trust offers flexibility and control during your lifetime, allowing you to modify or cancel it if your circumstances change.
An Irrevocable Trust is a powerful tool to protect your assets from creditors and ensure they pass to your beneficiaries without being subject to estate tax.
A Living Trust is a flexible and popular estate planning tool that allows you to transfer your assets to your beneficiaries while avoiding probate.
A Testamentary Trust is created through your Will and takes effect after your death. It allows you to provide for your beneficiaries while ensuring that your assets are managed according to your wishes.

In the above four types of trust, revocable and irrevocable are the major trusts to discuss.

How to Tell If the Trust Is Revocable or Irrevocable?

Here are some key differences to look out for:

The Trust is Revocable if:

Can be changed or modified by the grantor after its creation
The grantor retains control over the assets during their lifetime
Assets are subject to estate tax after the grantor’s death
Assets in the trust are not protected from creditors

The Trust is Irrevocable if:

It cannot be modified once it has been created unless the beneficiaries consent.
The grantor gives up control over the assets in the trust
Assets are not subject to estate tax after the grantor’s death
Assets in the trust are protected from creditors

Can Someone Sell A Property That is in A Trust?

Selling a property held in a trust can be complicated, especially if the property was inherited through the trust. But still, you can do that.

If you’re inheriting an interest in a property through someone else’s trust, you may encounter challenges in the selling process.

However, the process is relatively easy and simple if you’re creating your own trust and wish to sell the property held in trust. Understanding the different types of trusts and how they work is important.

When the trustee has approved selling the house, now is the time to find a buyer for the house. Work with a real estate agent or home-buying company to get the deal done.

Also, if you’re the settlor or the beneficiary of a trust that holds your home, you can sell the property. If your trust property has foundation issues, disclose them to potential buyers upfront.

Seek professional guidance to navigate the process successfully if you struggle to sell a property held in a trust. Don’t let a lack of organization or unclear terms in the trust document prevent you from selling your property. With the right support, you can ensure a smooth transaction and a successful sale.

How Do You Sell a House in a Trust? – 3 Options

So, if you’re finally planning to sell a house that’s in a trust, you’ll need to understand the legal nuances involved.

Here are your options:

Option A: Selling a House in a Revocable Trust

The process is relatively straightforward if the house you’re planning to sell is in a revocable trust. As the owner of the property, you have the option to sell it either as the trustee or outside the trust. However, you will be liable to pay capital gains tax on the sale.

Option B: Selling a House in an Irrevocable Trust

The situation is a bit more complex if the house is in an irrevocable trust. The grantor cannot alter or dissolve the trust without the beneficiaries’ consent. To sell the property, you’ll need to either dissolve the trust or sell the home through the trustee with the beneficiaries’ approval.

If the trust stipulates that the property cannot be sold for any reason, you may not be able to sell it at all.

Option C: Selling an Inherited House

If you’ve inherited a home that’s in a trust, you have the freedom to sell it as you please.

However, if there are multiple beneficiaries, the trustee may choose to sell the home and distribute the proceeds according to the trust’s conditions.

What Are The Beneficiary’s Rights in A Trust?

Beneficiaries have the following rights in a trust:

Trusts provide a secure way for beneficiaries to receive their inheritance. This ensures that the assets are protected from misuse or mismanagement.
Beneficiaries have the right to request changes to the trust agreement if their circumstances change. The trustee can work with the beneficiaries to make necessary adjustments.
Trusts offer greater transparency and accountability than other estate planning tools. Beneficiaries have the right to receive regular updates on the trust’s financial performance and to review the trust’s financial records.
Beneficiaries may be entitled to receive the income generated by the trust assets. This can be especially beneficial for those who are not yet ready to manage large sums of money on their own.
Trusts can offer protection from creditors, lawsuits, and divorce settlements. Beneficiaries can be assured that their inheritance will not be lost due to unforeseen circumstances.
Trusts offer greater privacy than wills since they are not part of the public record. Beneficiaries can rest assured that their personal financial information will remain confidential.

Check This Out: Before or After The Divorce: When is the Right Time to Sell Your House?

What to Consider When Selling Property Held in Trust?

Trustees must follow specific legal requirements to ensure that the sale proceeds smoothly and beneficiaries receive their rightful share.

Review the trust or estate documents to ensure there is a power of sale.
Determine whether the property is in good condition and whether repairs or renovations are needed before selling.
Get a professional appraisal of the property to determine its fair market value.
Consider any tax implications of selling the property, including potential capital gains taxes.
Determine whether any liens or other encumbrances on the property could affect the sale.
Consider hiring a real estate agent who specializes in selling trust or estate properties.
Decide on the appropriate listing price based on the appraisal and current market conditions.
Create a marketing plan to attract potential buyers, including listing the property on multiple websites and hosting open houses.
Ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed correctly, including obtaining any required approvals from beneficiaries or the court.
Work with an experienced attorney to navigate any legal complexities associated with selling a trust or estate property.

7 Mistakes To Avoid As A Trustee Of a Trust

You should avoid several pitfalls to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Such as:

Don’t rush into a decision without proper research and consultation with experts.
Be aware of legal requirements and seek professional advice to avoid costly mistakes.
Avoid overpricing the property, as it may lead to a lack of interest from potential buyers.
Ensure the property is well-maintained and presented to attract potential buyers.
Disclose all information about the property to avoid any legal repercussions.
Ensure the property is marketed effectively to reach potential buyers.
Be aware of market trends and adjust the sale strategy accordingly.

FAQs

What is the Difference Between a Trust and a Will?

A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages assets for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries. It offers benefits such as avoiding probate and providing greater control over how assets are distributed.

Conversely, a will is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets will be distributed after their death. It must go through the probate process, and its instructions are subject to challenge.

What is Required of a Trustee When They Sell a Property?

When a trustee sells a property, they must act in the beneficiaries’ best interest and follow the trust agreement’s terms. They must also comply with any legal requirements related to the sale of the property.

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Selling a Property Held in Trust in Nashville