Time Is the One Thing We Never Get Back

This weekend, I had two listing appointments with future clients, and their stories reminded me of a powerful truth: time is the only thing we can never get back.

Story 1: A Sudden Loss That Changed Everything

My first client noticed her husband wasn’t quite himself after a work trip. He had lost weight and wasn’t his usual self. Shortly after, he was diagnosed with a terminal illness—and within just a few months, he passed away.

Now, while still grieving, she is forced to sell their home because his children want part of the assets.
Imagine losing your spouse and then losing your home too.

Story 2: A Veteran Still Full of Life

My second client is a proud United States Air Force veteran—84 years young, still bowling and dancing! His wife passed away in May. He is strong, but their home is now filled with memories and has become too large.

He wants to sell and buy a smaller property—a fresh start with peace and less maintenance.

Why I’m Sharing This

We all say:

• “I’ll organize my affairs later.”

• “One day I’ll make a plan.”

• “Eventually I’ll get everything in order.”

But later often becomes too late. We want to believe family will work things out…
But I’ve seen it over and over—money and assets can create conflict, greed, and broken relationships.

✅ What Does It Mean to “Get Your Affairs in Order”?

Most people don’t realize how many steps are involved until it’s too late. Here are the MOST important things to prepare:

1. Understand PROBATE

Probate is the legal process the court uses to:
✅ Validate a will (if there is one)
✅ Identify heirs
✅ Pay debts/taxes
✅ Distribute assets

Why it matters:
Probate can take months to years, cost thousands of dollars, and can create family conflict. Without planning, your family may have to go through this long and stressful process.

2. Know About AFFIDAVIT OF HEIRSHIP

If someone dies without a will, Texas allows an Affidavit of Heirship. This is a legal document used to identify who the legal heirs are without going to full probate.

✅ Faster than probate
✅ Cheaper than court
✅ Used often when real estate needs to be sold

But: All heirs must agree—and if there is drama, it can become complicated.

✅ 3. Other Affairs to Have in Order (BEFORE It’s Too Late)

✅ A LEGAL WILL

Clearly states who gets what. Prevents fighting.

✅ Power of Attorney (POA)

Allows someone you trust to make decisions if you’re unable to.

• Medical POA – healthcare decisions

• Financial POA – banking, property, bills

✅ Living Will / Healthcare Directive

Tells your family your medical wishes (life support, treatments, etc.)

✅ Beneficiaries Updated

Make sure your life insurance, retirement accounts, and bank accounts have correct beneficiaries—these can bypass probate!

✅ Real Estate Planning

• Is your home in a trust or Lady Bird deed?

• Who will inherit it?

• Will they sell or keep it?

• Is there a mortgage? Reverse mortgage? Liens?

✅ Communication with Family

The #1 cause of family conflict is confusion. Tell your loved ones your wishes. Put it in writing.

✅ Let’s Be Proactive, Not Reactive

If you’re facing something similar or want to prepare BEFORE something happens, let’s talk.

✅ I can connect you with trusted estate attorneys, financial advisors, and title experts
✅ I can help you understand your real estate options
✅ And most importantly, I will guide you with compassion and clarity

Your home holds memories. Your decisions shape your legacy.

Let’s protect both.
If you have questions or want to start planning, let’s connect. I’m here to help.

Have a blessed week! 
Erica Salazar 
210-204-3309 Hablo Español 
https://erica.texaseliterealestategroup.com/