What’s the Cost of an Estate Plan with Two Deeds?

Estate planning is a crucial step for protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out smoothly. But one of the most common questions people ask is: "How much should an estate plan cost, especially if it includes two deeds?" The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Costs can vary widely based on factors like location, complexity, and the level of service you receive. In this guide, we'll break down the typical price ranges, why they fluctuate, and what you should consider to get the best value—without cutting corners on quality.

Whether you're in Florida dealing with homestead properties or elsewhere, understanding these costs can help you make an informed decision. Let's dive in.

Why Estate Plan Costs Vary: Apples to Oranges Comparison

Not all estate plans are created equal. You might think you're comparing similar services, but often, it's like pitting a basic online template against a customized, attorney-drafted strategy. Here's why prices differ:

• Quality of Documents: Generic forms from the internet might seem affordable, but they often lack state-specific language. For example, in states like Florida, deeds involving homestead properties require precise wording to avoid legal pitfalls.

• Level of Service: Some plans include ongoing support, like answering questions post-drafting or fixing errors. Others are one-and-done.

• Attorney Expertise: Even among lawyers, there's a disparity. A seasoned estate planning attorney familiar with local laws (down to the county level) will provide better advice than a general practitioner.

• Plan Complexity: Basic wills and powers of attorney cost less than comprehensive plans with revocable trusts designed to avoid probate.

Location plays a big role too—prices in high-cost areas like California might exceed those in other states. Always consult a local professional for accurate estimates.

Online Services vs. Hiring an Attorney: The Real Cost Breakdown

If you're tempted by quick, cheap options, think twice. Online tools can pump out documents fast, but they frequently lead to mistakes that cost more to fix later.

The Risks and Costs of Online Estate Planning

• Free or Low-Cost Forms: You might find a deed template for $0–$150. However, these are rarely tailored to your state's laws. In Florida, improper language in a homestead deed could invalidate it or trigger taxes.

• Paid Online Services: Expect $50–$200 for basic documents like wills, trusts, or deeds. They claim to be state-specific but often use generic templates, leading to errors in durable powers of attorney or advance directives.

• Why Avoid Them?: Attorneys routinely spot issues in these documents. They might "work" on paper but fail in real scenarios, potentially causing probate delays or family disputes.

  
  

Attorney-Drafted Deeds: What to Expect for Two Deeds

When your estate plan includes two deeds (e.g., for transferring property to a trust or beneficiaries), hiring an attorney ensures everything is airtight. Here's a typical price range:

Service Level	Cost per Deed	Total for Two Deeds	What's Included
Basic Drafting	$350–$500	$700–$1,000	Simple preparation + recording fees; limited support.
Mid-Range with Support	$500–$750	$1,000–$1,500	Drafting, basic questions answered; fixes if needed before recording.
Premium Service	$750–$950+	$1,500–$1,900+	Comprehensive review, ongoing questions, error corrections post-drafting.

These estimates are based on common practices, especially in areas like Florida. Recording fees (usually $10–$50 per deed) are extra. Always ask: "What services are included? Will you handle fixes or future questions?"

Full Estate Plan Costs: From Basic to Comprehensive

An estate plan typically includes wills, powers of attorney, advance directives, and possibly trusts. Adding two deeds bumps up the price, but it ensures seamless property transfer without probate.

Plans Without Trusts

• Individual: $1,500–$3,000 (add $400–$500 per extra deed).

• Couple: $2,000–$4,000.

• These are simpler and focus on basic asset distribution but may not avoid probate entirely.

  
  

Plans With Revocable Trusts (Probate Avoidance)

• Low-End (Templated): $2,500–$3,000 for individuals; $3,500–$5,000 for couples (includes one deed; add $400–$500 for a second).

  • Often missing key customizations or additional documents.

• Mid-Range (Customized): $4,000–$6,000 for couples.

  • Better suited to specific needs, like protecting homestead properties.

• High-End (Premium Service): $6,000–$7,000+ for couples.

  • Includes in-depth consultations, document walkthroughs, and ongoing attorney support.

    
    

Remember, "you get what you pay for." A cheaper plan might save money upfront but could lead to costly probate fees (often 3–7% of estate value) if it's not robust.

Key Factors to Consider When Budgeting for Your Estate Plan

To ensure you're not overpaying—or under protecting—your assets, ask these questions:

• What's Included? Confirm if deeds, trusts, wills, and directives are covered. Does it include funding the trust (transferring assets like deeds)?

• Customization Level: Is the plan tailored to your family dynamics, health concerns, or tax strategies?

• Ongoing Support: Will the attorney explain documents, answer future questions, or update the plan if laws change?

• Location-Specific Needs: In Florida, for instance, homestead exemptions require special deed language to maintain tax benefits.

• Red Flags: Avoid attorneys who rush you or use one-size-fits-all templates. Meet with a few to compare.

Pro Tip: For Florida residents dealing with elder law, probate, or estate planning, consider firms like Cause Law Office, known for non-stuffy, client-focused service. Check their bio for contact details.

Final Thoughts: Investing in Peace of Mind

Estate planning costs, including two deeds, can range from $700 for basic attorney-drafted deeds alone to $7,000+ for a full, customized trust-based plan. The "right" price depends on your needs—don't skimp on quality to save a few hundred dollars, as errors could cost thousands later.

If you're ready to start, consult our attorneys at atCause Law, to get a personalized quote. Have questions about Florida-specific rules or need help with probate? Reach out to professionals who prioritize clear explanations and top-notch documents. Your future self (and your loved ones) will thank you.

This post is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for your specific situation.