Small business tips
Build the family tree and determine who are the heirs.
Identify the property in question and do the research (title search, land records, etc.)
Present the findings with the family—most times having a neutral party helps with the dissemination of information.
Every heir has the ability to contribute without interruption, actively listen and respect the ideas/potential goals of others.
Discuss the importance of the land (as a collective and individual heir) “what does the land mean to them.”
Explore ways to resolve the title by engaging in trusted counsel
Plan on collective expenses to resolve the title (fees, attorney costs, estate planning, LLC, etc.) and maintain the property (taxes, upkeep, etc.) while the title clearing process is proceeding.
Be consistent
Outline the purpose of the meeting
Set small tasks and delegate so that it is a contributory process
Stay relevant to the topic
Provide varying mediums to engage (in-person/virtual/hybrid)
Provide minutes or summaries of the meeting and next steps
End the meetings on a positive/grounding note. Not all meetings will be as productive as planned but so long as they feel connected, there is promise that the family can/will reconvene and come to an agreement or decision.