Episode 11 - Estate Planning Mistakes Risk Probate Loss In Texas

Episode 11 - Estate Planning Mistakes Risk Probate Loss In Texas

In this episode of the Texas Probate Real Estate Podcast, host Jeremy Kritt, a licensed Texas real estate broker specializing in probate property sales, talks with probate attorney Jesse E. Ramon, owner of the Law Office of Jesse Ramon. Jeremy and Jesse explore why many families delay or avoid estate planning, often due to emotional discomfort or misconceptions about how property ownership transfers after death. They discuss the risks of assuming assets automatically pass to a spouse, the legal steps required to retitle real estate, and the complications that arise when wills are incomplete or improperly executed. Jesse explains why DIY solutions like online templates may leave gaps that create costly probate challenges, while professional guidance ensures estates are fully protected. The conversation highlights how estate planning is not just about the individual but about safeguarding loved ones, preventing disputes, and ensuring smoother transitions during probate. Jeremy and Jesse emphasize that even a basic will can make a significant difference, saving families time, money, and stress. This episode provides practical insights for Texas families navigating probate real estate and underscores the importance of preparation and trusted professional support. Guest: Jesse E. Ramon | The Law Office of Jesse Ramon A Texas attorney with over two decades of experience in estate planning, probate, and business law. A graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law (J.D., 2002) and the University of Texas at San Antonio (B.A., 1999), he is a member of the State Bar of Texas and the Austin Bar Association. As a U.S. Army veteran, Jesse brings discipline, integrity, and client‑focused guidance to families and business owners navigating complex legal matters. Website: https://ramon-atxlaw.com [https://ramon-atxlaw.com]

Episode 10 - Texas Probate Homes Face Risk From Medicaid Recovery

In this episode of the Texas Probate Real Estate Podcast, host Jeremy Kritt, a Texas real estate broker who guides executors through complex probate property sales, sits down with probate attorney Pamela Hailey‑Petty to break down one of the most misunderstood issues families face: the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program. Jeremy and Pamela unpack how MERP claims actually work, why Medicaid liens catch so many heirs off guard, and how quickly equity can disappear when mortgages, deferred maintenance, and recovery claims collide. Pamela shares real cases where families assumed the home was “free and clear,” only to discover that Medicaid had a legal right to recover costs from the estate. They discuss the emotional pressure heirs feel to make fast decisions, the danger of committing to repairs or sales before understanding the estate’s true financial picture, and why evaluating equity requires more than just looking at the home’s value. MERP, debt, taxes, and carrying costs all play a role in determining what the heirs actually walk away with. This episode gives executors and families a clear look at the risks, the rules, and the importance of professional guidance when navigating Texas probate real estate. If you’re handling a property tied to Medicaid benefits, this conversation will help you avoid costly surprises and protect the estate’s value. Guest: Pamela Hailey-Petty, Attorney | Estate Planning & Probate | Hailey-Petty Law Firm | Serving clients in Austin and San Antonio With a background in law, business, and public service, including managing the Governor of Texas Emerging Technology Fund, she brings a practical and client-focused approach to every case. Since 2014, she has been dedicated to helping Texas families protect their futures through estate planning, probate, and trust guidance, taking a practical and client-focused approach to every case. Website: www.haileypettylaw.com [http://www.haileypettylaw.com]

Episode 9 - The Real Impact of Probate Delays, Frozen Accounts, and Authority Issues in Real Estate

In this episode of the Texas Probate Real Estate Podcast, host Jeremy Kritt, a licensed Texas real estate broker specializing in probate property sales, talks with Drea Haire, a Texas Board Certified attorney in Probate and Estate Planning and co‑founder of Legacy Estates & Trust in Austin. Jeremy and Drea break down the most common challenges families face when probate and real estate intersect in Texas. They discuss the “limbo period” before Letters Testamentary are issued, how frozen bank accounts affect mortgage payments, and why selling a home too early can create legal and financial setbacks. They also explore the risks of over‑leveraged properties, wholesaler tactics, inaccurate valuations, and the importance of choosing the right probate pathway. This episode gives executors and families a clear roadmap for navigating probate real estate with clarity, confidence, and the right support. Guest: Drea Haire, Attorney | Probate & Estate Planning Legacy Estates & Trust | A Texas Board Certified attorney practicing since 2012, she previously specialized in fiduciary trust administration and estate settlement before co‑founding Legacy Estates & Trust in 2020, now located at 1304 West Avenue in downtown Austin. Based in Austin since 2007, Drea focuses on helping clients navigate estate planning and probate with clarity and confidence. Website: www.legacyestatesandtrust.com [http://www.legacyestatesandtrust.com]

Episode 8 - How Funeral Homes and Banks Impact Probate Real Estate in Texas?

In this episode of the Texas Probate Real Estate Podcast, host Jeremy Kritt, a licensed Texas real estate broker specializing in probate property sales, talks with Stephanie A.H. Louie, Esq., an estate planning and probate attorney with Louie Legacy Law, PLLC in Round Rock, Texas. Stephanie shares her compassionate and practical approach to probate, shaped by personal experiences of loss and years of legal practice. She explains why empathy and clarity are essential for families navigating the “fog of grief,” and how simple steps like securing a death certificate, locating wills, and organizing financial records can ease the process. The discussion highlights the role of hospice and funeral homes in simplifying logistics, the frustrations families face with banks and institutions unfamiliar with probate, and the importance of keeping detailed records of every interaction. Jeremy and Stephanie also explore real estate issues unique to Texas probate, including survivorship rules, foreclosure risks, and strategies like Transfer on Death deeds to protect property value. Together, they emphasize that probate real estate is not just about legal filings; it’s about guiding families through one of life’s most difficult transitions with confidence, compassion, and practical solutions. If you are in Texas and wondering about selling a house in probate, this episode breaks down the probate process in plain English. Guest Bio: Stephanie Louie is an estate planning and probate attorney in Round Rock, Texas.  Formerly a California litigator, Stephanie loves practicing in wills and trusts and started her firm, Louie Legacy Law, PLLC, in 2025. Stephanie strongly believes in educating her clients and offers free initial consultations in person (she'll drive to you if you're within 30 minutes of Round Rock), over the phone, and via Zoom.  Her practical and compassionate approach to working with individuals and families going through estate planning and probate matters leaves clients feeling empowered and prepared to take the next step in their legal journey, so that, whether they are having testamentary documents prepared or talking to banks to close out a loved one's estate, confidence and peace of mind are always at the heart of the matter.

Episode 7: Texas Probate Real Estate Explained Through Real Family Experiences

In this episode of the Texas Probate Real Estate Podcast, host Jeremy Kritt, a licensed Texas real estate broker specializing in probate property sales, talks with Keely Espindola Freund, Esq., an estate planning and probate attorney with Heritage Law in Georgetown, Texas. They explore the realities of probate real estate in Texas, including the emotional challenges families face after losing a loved one, the risks of rushing into decisions, and the importance of proper planning. Jeremy shares real‑world examples of how mistakes in probate filings have led to foreclosure and costly delays, while Keely explains why specialization, clear communication, and understanding county‑specific processes are essential for smoother transactions. The conversation highlights common pitfalls such as co‑executors doubling the workload, foreclosure risks when mortgages lapse, and how billing models (flat fee vs. hourly) affect family communication. They also discuss why probate attorneys should focus on uncontested cases for efficiency, and how inclusive communication during listing appointments helps prevent conflict among heirs. With real estate often being the largest estate asset, this episode emphasizes the need for experienced guidance to protect property value, avoid foreclosure risks, and ensure heirs receive their share without unnecessary complications. If you are in Texas and wondering about selling a house in probate, this episode breaks down the probate process in plain English. Guest Bio: Keely Espindola Freund, Esq., Attorney | Estate Planning & Probate Heritage Law | Based in Georgetown, she provides thoughtful, straightforward counsel to help clients plan for the future and navigate matters after a loss with compassion.