Many people are concerned about protecting the family home for their children or grandchildren, while still ensuring that a surviving spouse, civil partner, or partner can continue to live in the property.

This can be achieved by placing your property, or your share of it, into a trust as part of your estate planning. A trust allows the property to be used by your surviving spouse or partner during their lifetime, while preserving the underlying value of the home for your descendants.

The trust can be structured to provide flexibility. For example, if the surviving spouse or partner later needs to move into a care home, the trust may allow them to receive income generated from the property or other trust assets to help with care costs, while ensuring that the capital value remains protected within the trust.

Including this type of arrangement in your estate planning can provide reassurance that your home will benefit your family in the way you intend, both now and in the future.

I can advise you on whether this form of planning is suitable for your circumstances and help put appropriate arrangements in place to protect your family home.