Understanding Lady Bird Deeds in Florida

How to Protect Your Home and Avoid Probate

Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated — and it shouldn’t be something you put off. For Florida residents, a Lady Bird Deed (also called an Enhanced Life Estate Deed) is one of the most powerful and underutilized tools available to protect your property, avoid probate, and keep control of your assets.

At Atilus & Associates, we help individuals and families create estate plans that work — plans that reduce stress, avoid unnecessary court battles, and preserve everything you’ve worked hard to build. If you own real estate in Florida, a Lady Bird Deed may be the perfect solution.

What Is a Lady Bird Deed?

A Lady Bird Deed is a legal document that allows you (the property owner) to transfer your home or land to a chosen beneficiary automatically upon your death — without going through probate.

What makes it unique is that you retain full control over the property during your lifetime. You can live in it, lease it, refinance it, or even sell it — without needing permission from your beneficiary.

It’s called an “Enhanced” Life Estate Deed because it gives you more power than a traditional life estate. And unlike a trust, it’s simpler and more affordable — while still offering significant legal protection. A Lady Bird Deed allows you to:

• Keep full ownership of your property while alive

  
  

• Automatically transfer it to a named beneficiary after your death

  
  

• Avoid probate entirely

  
  

  It’s a simple but strategic solution for passing on real estate — and it’s fully legal and recognized in Florida.

💡 Key Benefits of a Lady Bird Deed

1. Avoid Probate

The property passes directly to your beneficiary, without court delays or expenses.

2. Retain Full Control

You can live in the home, rent it, refinance, or even sell it at any time without the beneficiary’s permission.

3. Protect Against Medicaid Recovery

In many cases, your home won’t be considered a “countable asset,” which may help you qualify for Medicaid without losing your property.

4. Cost-Effective Estate Planning

Lady Bird Deeds are often less expensive than creating a living trust, yet offer many similar protections.

Who Should Use a Lady Bird Deed?

This tool is ideal for:

1. Homeowners who want a simple way to transfer property

   
   

2. Elderly clients looking to plan for Medicaid eligibility

   
   

3. Families who want to avoid inheritance disputes or probate costs

If your estate plan involves a primary residence or investment property, a Lady Bird Deed can make things easier for everyone.

📞 Let us help you secure your legacy. Schedule a consultation today to explore if a Lady Bird Deed is right for you.