So it's National Insurance then

[Vindec]

Best planning for those looking to safeguard the property is for spouses NOT to leave the house directly to each other, it leaves the surving partner with 100% of the house which effectively is counted against them in any care assessments.

Thanks. I have found your advice very useful. However, I'm confused. You say the best plan is for spouses not to leave the house to each other. But isn't it a fact that 50% of the house is likely to be owned by a surviving spouse so it is logical for the remaining 50% to be left to the spouse.

Could there ever be a time when the surviving spouse is forced to sell the property in order to pay for the spouse's care costs or is your suggestion merely a way of ensuring the full value of the house is inherited by your children or whoever?