Anyone who owns real estate needs to have a will that indicates what should happen to the property if he or she suddenly passes away.

You might assume you know who would inherit the house, but without a written will, the inheritance would be decided by state-law rules that might not be exactly what you’d expect.

Even if the house ultimately goes to the person you want, the lack of a will might mean that ownership of the house remains in legal limbo for an extended period of time. This can create unnecessary complications when it comes to paying property taxes and arranging for continued utilities and insurance coverage. If you have a mortgage, it can create even bigger headaches.

Having a will also prevents family disputes. For instance, if you live in your house with one of your children, the child might assume that he or she will get the house – but other siblings might legally inherit a share, and demand that it be sold.