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At Martella Law, we are committed to providing expert legal services to families, individuals, and businesses. Our approach is rooted in understanding the unique needs of each client, ensuring that we offer tailored solutions for a variety of legal matters. Below is an overview of the core services we provide to help you navigate the complexities of estate planning, Medicaid, small business consulting, and more.
Estate planning is essential for individuals and families who want to ensure their assets are protected and properly distributed. We assist in creating the five key documents that every family should have, especially if you have children, grandchildren, or loved ones you wish to safeguard. With our expertise, we help you plan for the future and ensure that your wishes are carried out exactly as you intend.
Learn more about Estate Planning.
Understanding Medicaid's requirements and how to qualify for nursing home care can be overwhelming. At Martella Law, we focus on the financial aspects of Medicaid planning, guiding you through the necessary steps to ensure you meet the qualifications. We help families make informed decisions about how to protect assets while securing Medicaid benefits for long-term care.
Learn more about Medicaid Planning.
Starting and running a small business can be a challenging task, and many entrepreneurs fall short of fully protecting themselves and their business. At Martella Law, we offer comprehensive small business consulting, advising business owners on how to properly structure their companies to ensure legal protection and financial stability. We help small businesses operate with the confidence that they are legally sound.
Learn more about Small Business Consulting.
Trust administration is a critical process that involves managing and distributing the assets in a trust after the trust creator has passed away. This responsibility often falls to the trustee, and we provide guidance on how to properly manage and distribute assets according to the terms of the trust. Whether you are serving as a trustee or a beneficiary, we can help you navigate this important process.
Learn more about Trust Administration.
Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone dies in order to settle their estate and distribute their assets to heirs or beneficiaries. At Martella Law, we offer expert probate services, guiding families through the often complex and lengthy process. We help to minimize complications and ensure that your loved one's estate is handled with care and efficiency.
Learn more about Probate Services.
At Martella Law, our clients' satisfaction is our top priority. Here’s what a few of them have said about their experience working with us:
Frinee Mattesich
“My husband and I had a complicated life, assorted properties, an ongoing construction business, interests and beneficiaries scattered around the globe. When we decided to create a Living Trust, we shopped for a pro to help us with the paperwork. After some false starts, we stumbled upon a real pro: Attorney Mark Martella. On the very first interview, he captured the essence of our life complexity and produced a complete and very professional document in record time. We are now moving confidently on to the next stage in our life. Thank you Mark!”
David Valentino
“Mr. Martella was generous with his time and took a genuine interest in our needs. His business acumen and experience were as valuable as his legal knowledge in helping us reach our goals. I would not hesitate to recommend this firm, especially to members of the local business community. I'm compelled to add that his office staff was friendly, responsive, and professional. Overall, an excellent experience.”
Harvey & Marianne Goldberg
“Mark did a terrific, totally thorough and comprehensive job with his deep knowledge and invaluable advice! We can't say enough positive about the personal care we received from the entire Martella Law Firm team as well as their efficiency and professionalism. We would highly recommend Mark Martella and The Martella Law Firm to anyone who is in need of estate planning.”
Don Deweese
“His expertise and guidance made this a very simple and easy process. He was there to answer all of our questions and kept us informed all along the way. We trust Mark and his team unconditionally.”
At Martella Law, we are here to guide you through every step of your legal journey. Whether you're planning your estate, navigating Medicaid eligibility, protecting your business, or dealing with probate, we offer the expertise you need to make informed decisions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your family.
Having donated nearly two million dollars since the start of the partnership, the Coldwell Banker brand continues its commitment to fostering hopeColdwell Banker Real Estate LLC, a subsidiary of Anywhere Real Estate Inc. (NYSE: HOUS), extends its impactful partnership with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital into 2025. The CB Supports St. Jude partnership has raised $1.97 million since its establishment in 2020.The inspiring story of David DiGregorio, an affiliated agent with Coldwell Banker Realty in Waltham, Massachusetts, truly reflects the spirit of the Coldwell Banker network. Recognized this year as the Stars of Hope top donor, a title he earned last year and in 2021, DiGregorios efforts serve as a powerful example of dedication, commitment and philanthropy. His generous contributions have not only significantly enhanced the overall impact made by the Coldwell Banker brand, but also have been instrumental in helping St. Jude give vital support to many families in need. The Stars of Hope recognition is honored annually to the top 15 percent of all participating agents who made donations in the CB Supports St. Jude program.The renewal of this program allows Coldwell Banker brand affiliated agents to keep donating a portion of every home sale or purchase to this worthy cause. This dedication guarantees that no family will face the financial burdens of treatment, travel, housing or food expenses while they work to bring their children home.QUOTES:We are deeply committed to the power of community and the profound importance of giving back. Our partnership with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital exemplifies our unwavering dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of families confronting unimaginable challenges. As we look ahead to 2025, we take immense pride in the collective impact we continue to achieve, knowing that every contribution brings hope and healing to children in need.Jason Waugh, President of Coldwell Banker Affiliates I am incredibly grateful to be part of a network that is truly committed to making a difference. Contributing to this cause has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career and seeing the tangible impact of our donations on the lives of these children reinforces the importance of our partnership with St. Jude.David DiGregorio, agent with Coldwell Banker Realty Waltham, Mass About Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLCPowered by its network of over 98,000 affiliated sales professionals in approximately 2,700 offices across 40 countries and territories, the Coldwell Banker system is a leading provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate brokerage services. The Coldwell Banker brand prides itself on its history of expertise, honesty and an empowering culture of excellence since its beginnings in 1906. The Coldwell Banker brand is committed to providing its network of affiliated sales agents with the tools and insights needed to excel in todays marketplace and is known for its bold leadership and dedication to driving the industry forward. The brand was named among the 2024 Womens Choice Award 9 out of 10 Customer Recommended Real Estate Agency. Blue is bold and the integrity and values of the Coldwell Banker brand give the Gen Blue network an unbeatable edge. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.
Report features fresh insights from U.S. luxury consumers and identifies the top trends dominating the global luxury real estate landscapeColdwell Banker Real Estate LLC, an AnywhereSM (NYSE: HOUS) brand, and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program, today released The Trend Report, showcasing increased consumer optimism in luxury real estate as the fourth quarter of 2023 welcomed fresh energy from luxury homebuyers.Over one-third of surveyed luxury consumers feel that 2024 will be a better time to buy or sell a home compared to 2023 indicating enthusiasm for luxury real estate as they pursue their dream home, according to the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Consumer Survey.Furthermore, the luxury market saw sales during the last quarter of 2023 increase nearly 4.2% for single-family homes and 14.2% for attached properties compared to the previous year, while new listings also increased by 14.2% for single-family homes and 7.2% for attached properties during the same period.[1] On average, luxury consumers surveyed plan on selling their home within the next 10 months.Alongside the luxury consumer survey, The Trend Report explores top trends leading todays luxury homebuying landscape, backed by additional insight and data from Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and Wealth-X.The top six themes shaping the 2024 luxury real estate market identified by The Trend Report are:Shifting out of Neutral: Influences on the Luxury MarketHave-It-All PropertiesThe Influence of AIThe High Earners, Not Rich Yet (HENRY) FactorForeign BuyersSmart HomesIn addition to the trends and consistent theme that wealthy Americans have a more positive outlook on the real estate market heading into 2024, key findings from the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Consumer survey include:Continued desire for affluent consumers to purchase a home abroadSocial medias tremendous role in homebuying decisionsLocation being the most important factor to consider when searching for a homeInternational InvestmentsAmerica continues to be a real estate safe haven for many of the worlds wealthiest and influential consumers. According to The Trend Report, international buyers purchasing real estate in the top 5% of the market in 2023 saw 25% growth, indicating that international high-net-worth consumers continue to see to value of investing in the U.S. luxury real estate market. The top international buyers include China, Canada and the United Kingdom, and the most favored cities to purchase within the U.S. are New York, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.While international buyers look to America for their next property, wealthy Americans are also exploring opportunities abroad, with nearly 40% of survey respondents planning to buy a home in a foreign location within the next year and two-thirds of affluent consumers saying they plan to purchase a home abroad within the next five years. Europe is the top destination among luxury consumers (29%), followed by North America outside the U.S. (28%) and the Caribbean (23%).Social Media Influences Luxury BuyersSocial media is overwhelmingly influencing luxury consumers to purchase their dream home. A whopping 73% of affluent consumers say they have been influenced by social media to purchase a particular home they desire. Instagram (45%), YouTube (45%) and TikTok (44%) are the top social media platforms that have influenced luxury consumers to purchase their dream home.For the younger generations of luxury homebuyers like millennials and Gen Z, TikTok has especially become an enormously popular platform to connect with real estate agents to become more knowledgeable of the housing market through comprehensive yet digestible, bite-sized videos and virtual walkthroughs of homes. 64% of consumers aged 18-24 have been influenced by social media in their desire to purchase a particular type of home. In addition, 68% of consumers in this age bracket are most likely to have been influenced by TikTok in their decision to purchase their desired home.Discerning Tastes in Luxury LivingWhile high interest rates and low inventory may cause some consumers to settle or pause their home search altogether, luxury consumers have only become more selective when purchasing their newest property. Todays affluent buyers are more discerning than ever, prioritizing location, privacy, wellness amenities, lifestyle experiences and the latest technology.Notably, the top three amenities desired by luxury consumers according to the survey findings are privacy, breathtaking views and garage space. Location is top-of-mind for luxury consumers when choosing a home (45%), followed by price (39%). Wealthy Americans prefer mid-sized to large modern contemporary styled homes, ideally located on the West Coast.High-tech security systems, smart lighting and energy-saving solutions stand out as the top three preferred technologies among luxury consumers. Notably, the preferences in smart home technologies vary across age groups. Older generations (45+) lean towards prioritizing convenience, while the younger demographics (1834) express a preference for privacy and security. Individuals aged 3544 prioritize health tech systems, such as air quality control and water analysis sensors.To explore the Trend Report and full survey results, visit https://www.coldwellbankerluxury.com/.QUOTES:After a year of high interest rates, housing shortages and conflicted consumer sentiment, its encouraging to see such a positive outlook on the luxury real estate market for 2024. If lower mortgage rate trends combined with the new inventory momentum continues, luxury homebuyers could be inspired to move forward with their next home purchase. As they prioritize new amenities, features and even explore overseas options for their next property, Im excited to see our Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists guide both buyers and sellers to achieve their dream homes.Michael Altneu, vice president, Coldwell Banker Global LuxuryIn contrast to the pandemic homebuying boom, were seeing luxury homebuyers more than willing to wait to find the perfect house in 2024 that meets every single one of their needs whether its privacy, wellness amenities, lifestyle experiences, latest technology or a combination of all those factors. Specifically, turn-key, move-in ready homes with easy access to the best luxury amenities provide buyers with instant gratification in attaining their desired lifestyle. Whether its purchasing the home that has it all or upgrading their current home with trending features, Im looking forward to seeing both buyers and sellers enjoying the decisions they make for their home this year.Jade Mills, president, Jade Mills Estates and International Ambassador of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury programMethodologyThe Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program collaborated with Censuswide, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and Wealth-X to provide insights into real estate trends, market sentiment, property investment and luxury spending preferences. Censuswide surveyed 4,213 U.S. consumers, 25% of which were luxury (1,053 respondents in total). Research was conducted between Nov. 27, 2023 and December 11, 2023. Luxury respondents were classified as those aged 18+ with a household income of $1M+, or who have bought a home in the U.S. worth $1M+ or are planning to purchase a home in the near future worth $1M+. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on ESOMAR guidelines and principles. For more information on how data was collected and defined, please refer to the full methodology on page 4 of The Trend Report.[1] This data is sourced from an analysis of 130 U.S. markets by the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. For more information, please reference the methodology section on page 4 in The Trend Report.
Price (56%) is more important than location (50%) to surveyed consumers when choosing a home, according to the latest nationwide survey from Coldwell Banker Real Estate, an AnywhereSM (NYSE: HOUS) brand. It also finds that women value price more than men 60% to 48%, respectively. This bucks the real estate industrys oldest advice, setting new stakes for this years market.The data further reveal that the dream of home ownership is still alive and well: Of consumers who purchased a home last year, 31% did so because they found their dream home. Additionally, of homeowners who plan to sell their homes in the future, 66% say they plan to move to either a different city, state or country.While many consumers made their dream home purchase last year, the data show that some desire to seek new horizons, said Jason Waugh, president of Coldwell Banker Affiliates. For those still looking for their dream home no matter their price range, whether nearby or afar I encourage them to contact a real estate agent for local advice and context. The Coldwell Banker brand equips its global network of affiliated agents with tools and technology, including the Move Meter, where consumers can compare where they live to anywhere else.Additional key points emerge from the data, in terms of market sentiment, social media, ideal home preferences and financial dynamics, revealing the dreams and desires shaping the U.S. real estate landscape.Market SentimentA majority of consumers surveyed (56%) believe that the real estate landscape will either improve or remain the same in 2024 compared to the previous year. Additionally, the data indicates:Consumers who plan to sell their home in the future would be more likely to move to a different city after they sell their home now (39%) than in 2022 (19%).Keeping up with the Joneses 43% of consumers surveyed have been somewhat influenced or highly influenced by social media in their desire to purchase a particular type of home. Compare this to the findings from luxury consumers, with 73% of them saying the same. Other social insights include:Social media significantly influences home preferences for 64% of consumers aged 18-24, compared to a mere 16% of those aged 55 and above.Consumers surveyed who have been influence by social media in their desire to purchase a particular type of home aged 18-24 are most likely to have been influenced by TikTok (68%) in their decision to purchase the preference in the type of home they desire, while consumers aged 55 and above are most likely to have been influenced by Facebook (54%).This suggests a substantial role that platforms like TikTok, Instagram or other social media channels play in shaping homebuyers desires. This signals the need for a strong online presence and strategy. Ideal Home Preferences Across the nation, respondents each have their own version of the ideal home location, design and size, with no one-size-fits-all formula arising from the data.Almost a third of respondents (32%) said their ideal home is located in the South, while a quarter said its in the Northeast (24%).Almost half (49%) of consumers surveyed said their dream home size is mid-sized: 3-4 bedrooms and 2-3 bathrooms.While Ranch comes out on top (13%) for dream home design style with Modern Contemporary (11%) right behind, more respondents said they preferred no style in particular (16%). Financial Dynamics Shift Parental contributions to their childrens home purchases differ among generational and racial groups.Over a quarter (26%) of surveyed consumers have not provided or do not plan to provide financial support for their child(ren)s first home.Younger respondents (aged 25-34) are more likely (49%) to consider providing such support compared to those aged 55 and above (23%).Black Americans (46%) and American Indian or Alaska Natives surveyed (49%) exhibit a higher willingness to financially support their childrens home purchases.58% of consumers agree with the statement I consider my home as an asset that I would pass along to my child(ren). Navigating the Future As the industry adapts to diverse dynamics, real estate professionals become even more vital guides. The Coldwell Banker brand stands as a steadfast partner in this journey, ready to navigate the currents of the real estate market. In a landscape shaped by optimism, generational differences and evolving preferences, real estate agents emerge as the backbone, providing expertise and guidance. The future of American real estate is dynamic to say the least, and Coldwell Banker Real Estate remains a constant, ensuring that dreamers find their dream home in an ever-evolving market.MethodologyColdwell Banker collaborated with Censuswide to provide insights into real estate trends, market sentiment, property investment and luxury spending preferences. Research was conducted between November 27, 2023 and December 11, 2023, among 4,213 U.S. consumers aged 18 and older. 25% of respondents (1,053 in total) were luxury respondents classified as those aged 18+ with a household income of $1M+, or who have bought a home in the U.S. worth $1M+ or are planning to purchase a home in the near future worth $1M+. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on ESOMAR guidelines and principles.
At Martella Law, we are dedicated to helping families prepare for when "life happens." We assist individuals and couples in transferring their hard-earned assets to loved ones and navigating end-of-life challenges for themselves and their parents.Areas of PracticeEstate PlanningWe offer solutions for those looking to protect their most important assets, namely their loved ones. Learn moreProbate ServicesWe help heirs navigate the court-supervised process of identifying and gathering the assets of a deceased person to transfer to beneficiaries. Learn moreMedicaid PlanningWe focus on the primary financial considerations and requirements to qualify for Medicaid payments for nursing home care. Learn moreTrust AdministrationTrust administration ensures your assets are passed without needing to pursue the probate process for assets properly placed in a trust. Learn moreSmall Business ConsultingFrom helping you decide what type of entity you should be to ensuring your documents are in place, we assist budding entrepreneurs in pursuing the "American Dream." Learn moreMeet Mark MartellaMy passion lies in educating the public about the truth concerning proper estate planning to protect individuals and their families. I'm here to prepare you for when "life happens!"Contact UsI offer a complimentary, confidential consultation in person, or via Zoom or phone if that is more convenient. I am even willing to go to someones home or medical facility for a consult and document signing if they are unable to travel due to physical limitations.Please call Tara at my Port Charlotte office at 941-867-6865.I am conveniently located at:18245 Paulson Drive,Port Charlotte, FL 33954
At Martella Law, we are dedicated to helping families prepare for when "life happens." We assist individuals and couples in transferring their hard-earned assets to loved ones and navigating end-of-life challenges for themselves and their parents.Areas of PracticeEstate PlanningWe offer solutions for those looking to protect their most important assets, namely their loved ones. Learn moreProbate ServicesWe help heirs navigate the court-supervised process of identifying and gathering the assets of a deceased person to transfer to beneficiaries. Learn moreMedicaid PlanningWe focus on the primary financial considerations and requirements to qualify for Medicaid payments for nursing home care. Learn moreTrust AdministrationTrust administration ensures your assets are passed without needing to pursue the probate process for assets properly placed in a trust. Learn moreSmall Business ConsultingFrom helping you decide what type of entity you should be to ensuring your documents are in place, we assist budding entrepreneurs in pursuing the "American Dream." Learn moreMeet Mark MartellaMy passion lies in educating the public about the truth concerning proper estate planning to protect individuals and their families. I'm here to prepare you for when "life happens!"Contact UsI offer a complimentary, confidential consultation in person, or via Zoom or phone if that is more convenient. I am even willing to go to someones home or medical facility for a consult and document signing if they are unable to travel due to physical limitations.Please call Tara at my Port Charlotte office at 941-867-6865. I am conveniently located at: 18245 Paulson Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33954
At Martella Law, we are dedicated to helping families prepare for when "life happens." We assist individuals and couples in transferring their hard-earned assets to loved ones and navigating end-of-life challenges for themselves and their parents.Areas of PracticeEstate PlanningWe offer solutions for those looking to protect their most important assets, namely their loved ones. In addition to a complimentary, confidential, no obligation initial consultation, either in person, or via phone or Zoom, I am also willing to go to a home or medical facility if you are not physically able to travel (at no additional cost). Learn more.Probate ServicesWe help heirs navigate the court-supervised process of identifying and gathering the assets of a deceased person to transfer to beneficiaries. Probate is the legal process after someone dies to settle their estate and distribute their assets to heirs or beneficiaries. It is a court-supervised procedure that ensures the deceased persons debts are paid, and their remaining assets are distributed according to their Last Last Will & Testament, or if there is no Last Will & Testament, according to Floridas intestate succession law.Unfortunately, you are most likely going through the grieving process when the issue of a probate comes up, and the last thing you want to do is to be buried in paperwork and responsibilities if you are the Personal Representative under a Last Will and Testament, or facing an even worse situation where there is no Will. At the Martella Law Firm, we generally recommend to take the first 30 days to take care of yourself and your family and grieve the loss of your loved one. There is nothing that is an emergency. The bank is not going to foreclose on the mortgage immediately, and the credit card companies and hospitals may or may not have an enforceable claim against the estate. Once you have had an opportunity to catch your breath and get control of your emotions, we can sit down together and work out a plan regarding how to get your loved ones affairs in order and handle their estate in an organized and orderly fashion. Medicaid PlanningWe focus on the primary financial considerations and requirements to qualify for Medicaid payments for nursing home care. TOO OFTEN, the first time anyone thinks about how they are going to pay for nursing home care (also known as skilled nursing care), is when they, or a loved one, needs it. Most of us assume that we will go on living our relatively healthy lives and it is not something that we need to think about. At the Martella Law Firm, we strive to educate you on the requirements to meet Medicaid eligibility to cover nursing home expenses. We also partner with experts in the field to assist you and/or your loved one in processing the application, and preparing the legal documents necessary to get you qualified.Trust AdministrationTrust administration ensures your assets are passed without needing to pursue the probate process for assets properly placed in a trust. If you are a Trustee of a trust and have never had that responsibility before, it can truly be overwhelming. At the Martella Law Firm, we will hold your hand through the process and will guide you through what you need to do to make it as stress free as possible. Small Business ConsultingFrom helping you decide what type of entity you should be to ensuring your documents are in place, we assist budding entrepreneurs in pursuing the "American Dream." Many small business owners go on-line and form a business but do nothing more to protect themselves by properly acting like a corporation. If you havent followed the statutory requirements, you could expose your personal assets to business debts. At the Martella Law Firm, we strive to not only make sure you are properly formed, but also, that you maintain your company in conformance with the legal requirements, so that you dont expose yourself to a creditor piercing the corporate veil and going after your personal assets.Meet Mark MartellaMy passion lies in educating the public about the truth concerning proper estate planning to protect individuals and their families. I'm here to prepare you for when "life happens!" While I have been preparing estate planning documents for over 30 years, I never actually saw them in action until my experiences with my Mom. It was then that I realized their importance in making a very stressful time go more smoothly for the family members involved in a parents care. I have since decided to make it my mission to help as many people as I can to have the documents and plans they need in place, before an unexpected life event occurs and its too late. Learn more.Contact UsI offer a complimentary, confidential consultation in person, or via Zoom or phone if that is more convenient. I am even willing to go to someones home or medical facility for a consult and document signing if they are unable to travel due to physical limitations.Please call Tara at my Port Charlotte office at 941-867-6865. I am conveniently located at: 18245 Paulson Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33954