General Estate Planning Questions - What is an estate?

If you own anything, a car, a home, a bank account or other financial assets, a collection of books, cd's, electronic equipment, etc., then -- congratulations!  You have an 'estate!'

The very word 'estate' conjures up images of mansions, limos, etc.  In reality, most people have an estate -- be it large or small. Your 'Estate' is just the stuff you own when you die! While you are alive, you sell your stuff at a yard sale.  When you die, the same stuff is sold at an Estate sale!