Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

Quitclaim house to children-stepped up basis

My mom quitclaimed her home which has no mortgage to me and my 2 siblings 4 years ago. I am concerned that we will lose the stepped up cost basis for tax reasons upon her passing. Also, if one of the kids are sued can they go after her house? The attorney who prepared the quitclaim wrote the following on the deed. ''EXCEPTING AND RESERVING TO SAID FIRST PARTY AN ESTATE IN THE PREMISES DESCRIBED ABOVE FOR AND DURING THE NATURAL LIFE OF THE FIRST PARTY'' Does this statement still allow us to receive the stepped up cost basis and not pay taxes when our mom passes away? Also, if the kids are sued, can the house be attached either when she is alive or upon her death? Thank you in advance for your answer.

Lee


Asked on 8/24/06, 5:40 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Quitclaim house to children-stepped up basis

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

By executing a Quit Claim Deed and transfering the property your mom preserved her homestead status of her home. Placing the property in her name for life with a remainder to you and your siblings. The home is protected against any claims against you or your siblings by mom's homestead during her lifetime.

The property will still quailfy as mom's homestead which will qualify her for the homestead exemption and limit the rise in property taxes under the Florida constitution.

Unfortunately, you have probably lost the opportunity to take advantage of the stepped up basis under the Internal Revenue Code. It may also be revalued for real property tax purposes by the County Appraiser in which the property is located.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 8/24/06, 6:35 pm
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Quitclaim house to children-stepped up basis

In addition, the house may lose its homestead exemption on her death and be subject to the judgment liens of the children.

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Answered on 8/24/06, 6:49 pm


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