A trust is a tool used to hold and manage assets on behalf of others. When real estate is titled in a trust, it helps families avoid probate, streamline transitions, and protect privacy.

While an attorney and financial advisor handle the legal and tax framework, our role is to help families and trustees manage the real-world logistics of trust property—evaluating, preparing, and selling homes so the estate can move forward efficiently and profitably.

At Tierney & Co., we help coordinate the professionals and processes that turn a trust’s written plan into reality—always with compassion, transparency, and accountability.

21 Responsibilities of a Trustee

Serving as a trustee can be both an honor and a significant responsibility.
While you should always seek guidance from your attorney and CPA for legal and tax matters, here are the 21 practical areas where trustees often take action or coordinate with professionals:

1. Understand and follow the terms of the trust

2. Secure property and personal belongings after the grantor’s passing

3. Notify heirs and interested parties

4. Obtain multiple copies of the death certificate

5. Review the trust document with an attorney for interpretation

6. Identify and value all assets held in the trust

7. Maintain property insurance and utilities

8. Manage or lease trust real estate, if applicable

9. Arrange for appraisals or comparative market analyses

10. Coordinate property repairs, maintenance, or improvements

11. Communicate with beneficiaries regularly and transparently

12. Keep detailed financial and transaction records

13. Pay outstanding debts, taxes, and expenses as advised by the CPA

14. Work with professionals to prepare the property for sale

15. Hire and oversee licensed vendors and contractors

16. Ensure the sale or transfer of property follows trust instructions

17. Deposit proceeds into the trust account or escrow

18. Distribute funds to beneficiaries as directed by the trust

19. Prepare an accounting for the attorney and beneficiaries

20. Retain records for tax and legal purposes

21. Work with your professional team to close out the trust properly

These responsibilities require organization, compassion, and professional coordination—especially when real estate is involved. That’s where we help.

Our Role: Real Estate Coordination for Trustees

As your Real Estate Planner and Senior Transition Specialist, we provide:

• Property evaluations and market-based recommendations

• Vendor coordination through our ReadyHome Program (renovate now, pay at closing)

• Guidance on presenting the property for maximum value and minimal stress

• Collaboration with your attorney, CPA, and fiduciary to ensure full transparency

• Senior-move and downsizing support through NASMM-certified partners

We don’t replace your legal or financial advisors—we complement them by managing the real estate and transition side of the trust process.

Fiduciary-Level Care & Accountability

When you represent a family, estate, or trust, your reputation matters.
Our systems are designed to support documentation, communication, and accountability at every step.

You can expect:

• Court-ready project documentation (photos, invoices, cost summaries)

• Licensed and insured vendors only

• Regular progress updates and cost tracking

• Market-driven strategies to achieve the highest and best sale price for the trust property

Why Trustees Choose Tierney & Co.

• Specialized in trust and estate real estate

• Collaborative “Power Team of Four” approach: Attorney, CPA, Financial Planner, Real Estate Planner

• Transparent project management and fiduciary reporting

• Proven local expertise in Santa Barbara, Goleta, Montecito, and surrounding areas

• White-glove service that preserves dignity and legacy

Move Forward with Confidence

Whether you’re a first-time trustee or a professional fiduciary, we’ll help you manage the property side of the trust with clarity, care, and compliance—so you can focus on fulfilling your role and honoring your loved one’s legacy.