Estate Planning in Downingtown, PA: Do You Really Need a Trust — or Just a Will?

If you live in Downingtown or anywhere in Chester County, estate planning might feel overwhelming — or easy to put off.

But according to local estate planning attorney Beth Rondinelli of Rondinelli Law Firm, it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Recently, we sat down with Beth through Downingtown Life and KCMG Real Estate Advisors to talk about one of the biggest misconceptions we hear from homeowners:

Do I need a trust… or just a will?

Does Everyone in Pennsylvania Need a Will?

Short answer: Yes.

Beth makes it clear:

“Everybody needs a will. Not everybody needs a trust.”

In Pennsylvania, a will is essential — especially if you have children. Without one, a judge could ultimately decide who raises your kids. That’s not something most families in Downingtown want left to chance.

A will allows you to:

• Name guardians for minor children

• Designate an executor

• Clearly outline how your assets should be distributed

Even if you have a trust, you still need a will.

Do You Need a Trust in Chester County?

Here’s where things get more nuanced.

There’s a common myth that everyone must have a trust to avoid probate. But in Pennsylvania, probate is generally efficient and not excessively costly compared to other states.

However, you may want to explore a trust if:

• You own property outside Pennsylvania (Florida, New Jersey shore homes, the Carolinas, etc.)

• You are in a blended marriage

• You want to create a testamentary trust for minor children

Estate planning is state-specific — and what applies in New Jersey or Florida may not apply in Chester County.

How Often Should You Update Your Will?

If you already have estate documents in place, that’s great. But here’s the important part:

“It’s not a one-and-done. It’s an evolving process.”

Beth recommends reviewing your documents every three years, or sooner if you experience a major life event such as:

• Marriage

• Divorce

• Birth of a child

• Death in the family

• Significant financial changes

One of the most powerful statements from our conversation:

“Sometimes an old will is worse than dying without a will.”

Outdated executors, guardians who have aged out, or ex-spouses still listed can create serious complications for families.

The Risks of DIY Online Wills

Many homeowners in Downingtown search for online templates or big-box store will kits. While they seem convenient, Beth sees a high percentage of clients who attempted DIY estate planning first.

The issue?

You don’t know what you don’t know.

Mistakes in estate documents often cost families more to fix later than doing it properly from the start. Estate planning isn’t just filling in blanks — it’s anticipating issues your family may face.

What Does the Estate Planning Process Look Like?

For Chester County families, the process is simpler than most people expect:

• Schedule online

• Meet in person or virtually (typically under an hour)

• Documents drafted within a couple of weeks

• Review and sign

Beth even offers home, hospital, and rehab visits when needed — making it accessible for every stage of life.

Most clients leave saying:

“That wasn’t as bad as I thought.”

Affordable Estate Planning in Downingtown

Beth offers a Peace of Mind Package that includes:

• Simple Will

• Durable Power of Attorney (finances)

• Advanced Directive / Living Will

Starting at $300 per person.

With a home office in Downingtown, she’s able to keep overhead low and pass that savings along to local families.

Why This Matters for Homeowners

At KCMG Real Estate Advisors, we talk with families every day about buying, selling, investing, and building generational wealth in Chester County.

Estate planning is part of that bigger picture.

If you own a home in:

• Downingtown

• Exton

• West Chester

• Coatesville

• Chester Springs

• Elsewhere in Chester County, PA

Your estate plan should align with your real estate goals.

It’s not about pressure. It’s about protection.

If you don’t have a will — it’s time.
If you have one — it might be time to review it.

Connect with Beth Rondinelli

RONDINELLI LAW FIRM
📞 (484) 593-0032
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://rondinellilawfirm.com
📍 Downingtown, PA | Serving Chester County

About KCMG Real Estate Advisors

KCMG Real Estate Advisors proudly serves homeowners and buyers throughout Downingtown and Chester County. We believe real estate is more than a transaction — it’s part of your long-term financial and family planning strategy.

If you have questions about how your home ownership fits into your overall plan, we’re always here as a resource.