by Julie Curtin, Champlain Housing Trust, and Brian Stark, Stark Law
For most Vermonters, a home is more than just a place to live–it’s the biggest investment they’ll make. For roughly 35 to 40 percent of Americans, owning a home is the number one way to build wealth.
For some, a home continues a legacy that began generations ago. For others, it’s the first step in creating one. Either way, homeownership is a powerful achievement–and protecting that achievement is just as important as reaching it.
There’s no better time than now to begin your estate planning, and CHT has the course to put you on that path.
Estate planning isn’t about anticipating the end–it’s about ensuring the future. It’s the process of deciding how your home and other assets will continue to support the people and causes that matter most to you. A clear plan offers comfort and stability for your loved ones, reduces stress and confusion, and saves both time and money.
Without one, families can face costly and complicated legal hurdles. With one, you can turn your home into a lasting foundation for the next generation.
Estate planning is really a celebration of success. It’s about protecting what you’ve worked hard for, so it continues to serve those who you care about.
A thoughtful estate plan can also prevent misunderstandings that strain relationships at difficult times. It provides clarity–something every family appreciates when decisions are hard and emotions run high.
At Champlain Housing Trust, we encourage every homeowner, no matter their income or experience, to see estate planning as part of their homeownership journey.
To help homeowners take those steps with confidence, Champlain Housing Trust is offering two upcoming virtual workshops on estate planning:
- Wills & Trusts - Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Instructor: Brian Stark, Stark Law
- Enhanced Life State Deed, Advanced Directives & Power of Attorney (POA) - Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Instructors: Grace Pazdan & Leah Burdick, Vermont Legal Aid
Both workshops are open to the public and cost $10 per class – a small investment for peace of mind that can make a world of a difference later on.
Your home has already given you stability, comfort, and pride. Now’s the time to make sure it keeps giving.
To learn more about how to start your estate plan, visit Champlain Housing Trust’s website.
About the authors:
Julie Curtin is the Director of Homeownership at Champlain Housing Trust. Brian Stark is an attorney with Stark Law in Burlington specializing in estate planning and real estate law.
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