Can an Executor of a Will Be a Beneficiary?
When an individual creates their last will and testament, they designate someone to execute their instructions. That person, referred to as the will’s executor, is tasked with ensuring that the will's provisions are followed. If a will lacks a designated executor, the probate court will name one for the job. The executor must act in the best interests of the estate as a whole, even if that is counter to the wishes of one or more beneficiaries. If the beneficiaries don’t want the instructions in the will carried out, the executor is obligated to follow the instructions of the deceased, not the beneficiary. It’s important to note that an executor cannot change or delete beneficiary designations.
Can You Depreciate Inherited Property?
Investors can take advantage of tax deductions by using depreciation on their investment properties. Depreciation is available for residential and commercial real estate owners who use their properties for business or income-producing means.
How Do REITs Perform in a Bear Market?
When investors discuss the stock market, they may use terms like “trading,” “bear market,” “bull market,” “correction,” “volatility,” and more. So if you participate in the market, aspire to, or just want to keep up with current economic conditions, it’s a good idea to develop your knowledge of how the market works.
How Do Rising Interest Rates Affect REITs?
Real Estate Investment Trusts continue to show sustained popularity with investors seeking income and returns. In fact, the Wall Street Journal reports that the funds managed more than $224 billion by the end of 2021. Among the motivations for shareholders are the desire to own commercial real estate, the pursuit of truly passive income, and returns that have often outpaced increases in the cost of living. Some investors who have held real estate and managed it actively prefer to transition to REIT participation as a way to maintain their real estate involvement without the need to remain involved with tenants directly.
Can a Minor Be a Beneficiary?
We’ve written extensively about beneficiaries in previous blogs, and for very good reason. Wealth building through investments is only part of the issue. The other part is your passing. Specifically, naming a beneficiary helps ensure your wealth is successfully transferred without legal wrangling over your estate.
What Qualifies as an Investment Property for a 1031 Exchange?
A 1031 exchange is a method that taxpayers can use to defer the payment of capital gains when they sell real estate under certain circumstances. For the transaction to succeed, it must involve the exchange of one investment property for another, and the properties must meet the IRS' definition of "like-kind." In addition, there are some other crucial rules governing the process, all of which the taxpayer must follow to avoid disqualification of the deferral:
What Is Next of Kin and How Does it Work?
If you die without leaving a will, you leave behind a complicated financial situation for your potential heirs. Regardless of any wishes you had for your estate while you were alive, your financial assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state.
What Is the Difference Between a Section 121 Exchange and a 1031 Exchange?
If you own an investment property and are in the market to sell for a new property, you can defer taxes using the IRS tax code provisions. Depending on the type of property you own, you may qualify for a 1031 exchange or a section 121 exchange. Learn the differences between the two and how you can take advantage of both to potentially defer your capital gains taxes.
How Many Beneficiaries Can You Have?
Creating a will can alleviate many legal and financial considerations upon your passing. It’s a legally binding document that ensures your spouse, children, and other named heirs are the beneficiaries of your estate. A will also avoids tying up your estate in a lengthy probate process that can delay the distribution of physical and monetary assets to your heirs.
