Many Michigan homeowners want to pass their home to their children without going through probate. One of the most effective ways to do this is through a Lady Bird Deed, also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed.
Michigan is one of the few states where Lady Bird Deeds are legally recognized, and they have become an increasingly popular tool in modern estate planning.
At Dakroub Law Group, we regularly use Lady Bird Deeds to help families protect their property and avoid unnecessary court involvement.
What Is a Lady Bird Deed?
A Lady Bird Deed is a special type of deed that allows you (the homeowner) to keep full control of your property during your lifetime – including the right to live in it, sell it, refinance it, or change the future beneficiaries at any time.
When you pass away, the property automatically transfers to the beneficiaries listed on the deed without going through Michigan probate court.
This transfer is legally recognized under Michigan’s common law and estate planning framework, and is widely used across the state.
Key Benefits of a Lady Bird Deed in Michigan
- Avoids Probate
The biggest advantage is that the home transfers immediately to the beneficiary, bypassing probate completely.
This saves the family time, legal fees, and stress.
- You Keep Full Ownership Rights
Unlike a traditional life estate, a Lady Bird Deed allows you to:
- Sell the home
- Mortgage or refinance the home
- Change the beneficiaries
- Revoke the deed entirely
All without needing the consent of the listed beneficiaries.
3. Helps With Medicaid Planning
In Michigan, a Lady Bird Deed:
- Does not count as a completed transfer for Medicaid eligibility
- Can help protect the home from Medicaid Estate Recovery after death
This makes it a valuable tool for seniors planning long-term care.
4. Offers Privacy and Simplicity
Because the home doesn’t go through probate:
- No court filings are needed
- The transfer remains private
- Beneficiaries receive the property faster
Common Situations Where Michigan Homeowners Use a Lady Bird Deed:
- Passing a family home to children
- Keeping a cottage or rental property in the family
- Simplifying estate transfers for surviving spouses
- Avoiding probate in blended families
- Protecting property while planning for Medicaid long-term care
Conclusion
A Lady Bird Deed is a powerful, Michigan-specific tool that helps families avoid probate, maintain control over property, and plan for long-term care. If you’re a Michigan homeowner, this simple strategy can save your family significant time and money.
To learn whether a Lady Bird Deed is right for your estate plan, contact Dakroub Law Group today.
📞 Call (313) 315-6300 or visit www.dakroublaw.com to schedule a consultation.