Grant Deed and Probate

[2jerrys]

We live in California and we purchased a house from my mother so that she would have money to live on. I have a grant deed with my wife and I as joint tennants. Mom has no other assets. If she passes away will the house have to go through probate, less than $15,000 is owed.
Also when the house is paid for we plan on continuing the payments as she needs it. We do not want her to know we are doing that. How can I avoid probate ? With a grant deed do I need to do anything ? Thanks Jerry

 

[ALawyer]

First, if she gave you a deed, and it was notarized, you should have the deed filed and recorded. That transfers title to the property to your name. If she did not, or there was a proplem with the deed, you'd have to go thru probate, or simplified probate.

One more thing. If you mother has been getting MedicAid - MediCal - her estate would owe the state at her death to the extent she had assets. If she gave you property, the state may come after you for its value.