The cost of a Lady Bird Deed in Florida can vary depending on who prepares the document and the level of legal service involved. On average, a professionally prepared Lady Bird Deed by a licensed Florida attorney typically costs between $300 and $600. This fee often includes not just the drafting of the deed, but also a legal consultation, personalized review of your situation, and assistance with recording the deed in the appropriate county.
Have questions? Explore our main content and consult with a professional here: Lady Bird Deed in Florida
At Woodstock Law Firm, our Lady Bird Deed service is designed to be clear, fast, and affordable. We deliver fully customized, legally compliant deeds prepared by experienced attorneys—never automated software. This ensures your deed aligns with Florida law and your estate planning goals.
In many cases, the fee includes:
- A brief legal consultation with a Florida attorney
- Review of your current property title
- Drafting of the Lady Bird Deed with proper language
- Instructions for notarization and county recording
- Optional electronic recording assistance (based on county availability)
If you’re ready to secure your property’s future, call us today at (954) 355-4255 for a quote tailored to your needs.
DIY vs Hiring an Attorney: What’s the Real Difference in Cost?
It’s true that there are free or low-cost Lady Bird Deed templates available online—but using a generic form comes with serious risks, especially when you’re dealing with real estate and estate planning in Florida.
Let’s compare both options:
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Deed Preparation
- ✅ Cost: Often free or under $50
- ❌ Risk: High — one wrong word or missing clause can invalidate the deed
- ❌ No legal review: You’re on your own for accuracy, legality, and filing
- ❌ Medicaid or tax impact: Mistakes can disqualify benefits or create tax surprises
- ❌ No liability protection: No one is responsible if the deed causes legal problems later
Hiring an Attorney
- ✅ Cost: Typically $300–$600
- ✅ Includes legal consultation: Get answers specific to your property and goals
- ✅ Tailored to your situation: Deed is drafted based on your title history and beneficiaries
- ✅ Correct formatting and language: Florida’s enhanced life estate requirements are followed
- ✅ Protected process: Most firms carry malpractice insurance and stand behind their work
Many people who attempt DIY deeds eventually end up paying more to fix mistakes—especially after the property owner passes away and it’s too late.
If you want peace of mind that your property will transfer properly and avoid probate court, working with an experienced Florida attorney is the smart choice.
Other Potential Costs to Consider
While the attorney’s fee is the primary cost for preparing a Lady Bird Deed in Florida, there are a few additional expenses you should be aware of when planning:
1. Recording Fees
Once the deed is signed and notarized, it must be recorded with the county’s Clerk of Court where the property is located.
- Typical fee: $10 to $40, depending on the county
- This ensures the deed becomes part of the official public record
- Some law firms, including Woodstock Law Firm, can assist with electronic filing in select counties
2. Notary Services
If your deed is signed outside of your attorney’s office, you may need to pay a mobile notary.
- Typical cost: $10 to $25
- If you’re meeting with an attorney in person, notarization is usually included
3. Property Title Review (if needed)
In some cases, your deed may need to be reviewed for:
- Prior title issues
- Existing liens
- Errors in the current ownership record
While not always required, a title review can add $75–$150 if complications arise.
4. Certified Death Certificates (used after death)
When the property owner passes away, the remainder beneficiaries will need to record a death certificate to complete the transfer.
- Typical cost: $10 to $20 per certified copy
- You’ll need this document to update ownership with the property appraiser
These additional costs are usually minor, but they’re important to plan for upfront so your Lady Bird Deed process is smooth and complete.
Have questions? Call (954) 355-4255 and our legal team can walk you through exactly what to expect.
Other Potential Costs to Consider
While the attorney’s fee is the primary cost for preparing a Lady Bird Deed in Florida, there are a few additional expenses that property owners should be aware of when planning their estate documents.
1. Recording Fees
After the deed is signed and notarized, it must be recorded with the Clerk of Court in the county where the property is located.
- Typical cost: $10 to $40, depending on the county
- Recording ensures the deed is part of the official public record
- Some law firms, including Woodstock Law Firm, assist clients with electronic recording when available
2. Notary Services
If the deed is executed outside of your attorney’s office, you may need to hire a notary to witness the signature.
- Typical cost: $10 to $25
- Notarization is often included if signing occurs during your legal consultation
3. Property Title Review (if needed)
In certain cases, a review of your current deed or title may be necessary to identify prior ownership issues, liens, or errors.
- Additional legal review may cost between $75 and $150
- This step is optional but recommended when property history is unclear
4. Certified Death Certificates
After the life estate holder passes away, the beneficiaries must record a certified copy of the death certificate to finalize the transfer.
- Typical cost: $10 to $20 per copy
- Required by the county and property appraiser’s office to update ownership records
These minor costs are usually straightforward, but understanding them in advance helps ensure your Lady Bird Deed is properly executed and recorded without delays.
For help with the full process, call Woodstock Law Firm at (954) 355-4255 or visit our main Lady Bird Deed service page.
Is a Lady Bird Deed Cheaper Than a Trust?
For many Florida homeowners, the Lady Bird Deed is not only simpler—it’s significantly more affordable than setting up a revocable living trust.
A revocable living trust typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000 to draft and properly fund. In contrast, a Lady Bird Deed usually costs between $300 and $600, making it a cost-effective solution when the main goal is to transfer real estate without probate.
Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Lady Bird Deed | Revocable Living Trust |
| Average Cost | $300–$600 | $1,000–$3,000+ |
| Avoids Probate | Yes (for the property named in the deed) | Yes (for all properly transferred assets) |
| Medicaid Friendly | Yes | Yes, with proper planning |
| Maintains Control During Life | Yes | Yes |
| Can Be Revoked or Changed | Yes | Yes |
| Covers Multiple Assets | No (real estate only) | Yes (real estate, bank accounts, etc.) |
| Complexity | Low | High |
| Ideal For | Homeowners focused on one property | Individuals with multiple properties or complex estates |
A Lady Bird Deed is often the preferred option when:
- Your main concern is probate avoidance for your home
- You want to keep costs low while still working with a licensed attorney
- You prefer a simple, fast solution without ongoing trust administration
On the other hand, if your estate includes multiple types of assets or you have minor children, a trust may be a better fit.
Still not sure which is right for you? Contact us today at (954) 355-4255 and speak with a Florida estate planning attorney who can help you evaluate your options.
How to Get a Lady Bird Deed Done Right – Fast and Affordably
Creating a valid Lady Bird Deed in Florida is a relatively simple process—when it’s done by someone who understands Florida real estate and estate planning laws.
At Woodstock Law Firm, we make it easy and efficient to get your deed prepared correctly, so you can avoid probate and protect your property without unnecessary stress or cost.
Here’s how the process typically works:
Step 1: Schedule a Legal Consultation
We’ll start with a short consultation to understand your goals and property situation. You can speak with a licensed Florida attorney by phone or video.
Step 2: Property Title Review
Our team will review your current deed or title to ensure the property is eligible and free of issues that could affect your Lady Bird Deed.
Step 3: Drafting the Deed
We’ll draft a custom enhanced life estate deed that names your remainder beneficiaries, includes the required Florida language, and preserves your full control during life.
Step 4: Notarization and Execution
You’ll sign the deed in front of a notary (either in our office or remotely), making it legally binding.
Step 5: County Recording
We help file the deed with your county’s Clerk of Court, so the transfer is officially documented in public records.
The entire process is often completed within 1 to 3 business days.
Start your Lady Bird Deed today.
Call Woodstock Law Firm at (954) 355-4255 or visit our Lady Bird Deed service page to get started.
Key Takeaways: What You’re Really Paying For with a Lady Bird Deed
When considering the cost of a Lady Bird Deed in Florida, it’s important to understand that you’re not just paying for a document—you’re investing in legal protection, peace of mind, and a streamlined estate plan.
Here’s what your payment really covers:
- Customized legal drafting
Every deed is tailored to your specific property, beneficiaries, and goals. There’s no guesswork or generic template. - Attorney consultation
You get access to a licensed Florida attorney who can answer your questions and make sure your deed aligns with the rest of your estate plan. - Accuracy and compliance
The deed is prepared using the correct legal language to meet Florida’s enhanced life estate requirements. - Avoidance of probate
The result is a deed that works when it matters most—transferring your home without court involvement, delays, or added costs for your family. - Long-term protection
When done correctly, a Lady Bird Deed can protect your home from unnecessary taxation, probate fees, and Medicaid estate recovery.
Trying to do it yourself or using a non-attorney service may seem cheaper, but a mistake can cost thousands in legal fees or lost property rights later.
At Woodstock Law Firm, we believe estate planning should be accessible, personal, and done right the first time.
Need help now?
Call us at (954) 355-4255 or request your Lady Bird Deed consultation via our main service page.
Let us help you protect your home—quickly, legally, and with confidence.