Half of Michigan Homeowners Don’t Have This | Lady Bird Deed Explained | Insights from Jeff Duneske, Northville Realtor® and Certified Real Estate Planner

Did you know that more than half of Michigan homeowners don’t have a Lady Bird Deed and that missing this one simple document could cost their family thousands of dollars in probate fees and legal expenses?

A Lady Bird Deed (also called an Enhanced Life Estate Deed) is a special type of property deed recognized in Michigan that allows you to:

• Keep full control and ownership of your home while you’re alive.

• Automatically transfer your property to your chosen heirs after your passing.

• Avoid the lengthy and expensive probate process entirely.

Unlike a traditional will, which still goes through probate, a Lady Bird Deed provides direct, automatic transfer, protecting your loved ones, saving time, and avoiding unnecessary court costs.

Why Over Half of Michigan Homeowners Don’t Have One

Most homeowners assume their will protects their home, but that’s a costly misconception.

Without a Lady Bird Deed, your home may be subject to probate, attorney fees, and months (sometimes years) of delays before your family gains ownership.

Many Michigan residents haven’t heard of this option because it’s rarely discussed outside of estate planning or real estate circles. Yet for homeowners in Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Plymouth, and the greater Metro Detroit area, it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to safeguard a lifetime investment.

The Key Benefits of a Lady Bird Deed in Michigan

1. Avoid Probate: Your home transfers directly to your heirs, with no court involvement.

2. Maintain Control: You can refinance, sell, or change beneficiaries at any time during your lifetime.

3. Cost-Effective: Setting up a Lady Bird Deed is affordable and straightforward compared to complex estate planning alternatives.

4. Protect Your Family’s Privacy: Because probate is public record, this deed helps your family keep matters private.

5. Keeps Your Legacy Local: Michigan recognizes Lady Bird Deeds, allowing you to work directly with local real estate and legal professionals who understand state-specific laws.

Do You Need One Even If You Have a Will?

Yes — because a will alone doesn’t protect your home from probate.

A will outlines your wishes but doesn’t bypass the legal process. A Lady Bird Deed, on the other hand, legally transfers property ownership instantly upon death, avoiding probate altogether.

This makes it especially valuable for Michigan homeowners nearing retirement, those right-sizing to a new home, or anyone wanting to make life simpler for their loved ones.

How to Get a Lady Bird Deed in Michigan

You don’t have to navigate this alone.

As a Certified Real Estate Planner, I’ve helped hundreds of Michigan families understand their real estate options and connect with trusted local estate planning attorneys who can draft Lady Bird Deeds correctly and affordably.

It’s a simple step that can save your family significant stress and expense down the road.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your home and family’s future doesn’t need to be complicated.
A Michigan Lady Bird Deed gives you peace of mind, knowing your property will transfer smoothly, privately, and precisely as you intend.

If you’re unsure whether you already have one, or you’d like help getting started, I’d be happy to connect you with local professionals who specialize in Lady Bird Deeds and estate planning in Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Plymouth, and the surrounding Metro Detroit communities.

📞 Connect with Jeff Duneske

• Jeff Duneske, Northville Realtor®

• Certified Real Estate Planner | Keller Williams Advantage

• Helping good people move forward in life with clarity, confidence, and care.

• 🌐 Contact us with any questions here

👍 Like this article if you already have a Lady Bird Deed and share it with your friends or family so they can protect their homes too.