You've found it. The home with the perfect kitchen, the right school district, and the backyard you've been dreaming of. The contract is signed, the inspection is scheduled, and you're already picking out paint colors.

But before you head to the closing table, there's one critical step most homebuyers overlook: setting up your Living Trust before you take title. While many people plan to "put the house in the trust" eventually, doing it during the purchase process saves money, protects your privacy, and ensures immediate asset protection.