Wenzel & Wenzel, PLLC

06/02/2026

Selecting the right executor requires choosing an organized, reliable individual who can manage complex administrative tasks, navigate family dynamics, and dedicate months to settling your estate. To prevent delays and legal hurdles, avoid automatically appointing co-executors, obtain the candidate's prior consent, and name an alternate or estate attorney to handle the process.

This decision can be one of the toughest parts of estate planning

05/26/2026

What are "pocket listings," and why are they a threat to homebuyers? A new report from the Consumer Federation of America warns that these hidden, private listings are hurting market transparency. Before you buy or sell, let our real estate attorney ensure you are getting a fair, legally sound deal.

https://consumerfed.org/press_release/new-report-finds-nar-settlement-has-not-delivered-lower-costs-highlights-emerging-pocket-listings-as-threat-to-homebuyers/

05/21/2026

Estate planning involves more than simply filling out forms or using online templates. Learn more about the role an estate planning attorney can play in helping protect your assets and long-term wishes.

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/real_property_trust_estate/resources/estate-planning/lawyers-role/

05/14/2026

Beneficiary forms on retirement accounts, life insurance, and POD/TOD accounts generally control who receives those assets — review and update your beneficiary designations after major life events to avoid unintended outcomes.

Most Americans believe their will distributes their estate, but that's not the case with retirement accounts, life insurance, and more.

05/11/2026

A home‑equity agreement gives an investor a lien in exchange for cash and often requires a large balloon repayment tied to future home value — have a lawyer review lien terms, repayment triggers, and tax consequences before signing. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/what-is-a-home-equity-agreement/

05/07/2026

An executor must inventory assets, notify creditors and beneficiaries, file the will with probate court, and submit a final accounting before distributing assets; consider consulting a probate attorney for next steps.

An executor must act in an estate’s best interest while performing all tasks necessary to lead the estate through the probate process and distribute its assets.

05/05/2026

A revocable (living) trust is flexible and can avoid probate but offers little creditor protection; an irrevocable trust is harder to change but can shield assets and provide estate-tax benefits — consult a qualified estate/trust attorney to determine which fits your situation. https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/071615/what-difference-between-revocable-trust-and-living-trust.asp

04/30/2026

Estate tax and inheritance tax are often confused, but they work very differently. Learn more about who pays each tax and which states may apply these rules to your estate planning.

Learn how estate and inheritance taxes differ, who’s responsible for each and which states impose them so you can be tax-efficient with the wealth you plan to pass on.

04/27/2026

Putting your home in a trust can help avoid probate, protect your beneficiaries, and give you more control over how your property is passed down. Learn more about whether this estate planning strategy is right for you.

Placing your home in a trust can help you avoid probate and protect your beneficiaries and your wishes. Here are some points to consider about having a trust as part of your estate planning strategy.

04/23/2026

Wills and living trusts both help manage how your assets are distributed, but they differ in process, cost, and legal impact. Knowing which option fits your situation can help you plan more effectively for the future.

Learn about the differences between a living trust and a will, and find out which documents are right for your estate plan.