DIY last Will and testament, is it a good idea?

Irina Bartnik, Notary • January 14, 2020
DIY Last Will and Testament
It’s empowering to do something yourself. There is a satisfying sense of accomplishment that comes with the successful completion of a project. I also love cutting costs by doing things on my own, and often learn new skills in the process.

But even an avid DIY fan like me knows that there are some things that I simply can’t do by myself. I also know the value of working with a professional.

Some of them are obvious. Like open-heart surgery or building an aircraft.

But others aren’t so straightforward, like legal documents. Even as an experienced BC Notary, I know there are certain legal documents that I can’t prepare on my own. I accept that and defer to other experts when I need these documents.

This is why I’m concerned about a growing trend: people wanting to DIY their Wills (often using the internet as their only source of information).

Don’t get me wrong, I understand the appeal: cutting costs, avoiding the hassle of having to see a professional, the satisfaction of learning a new skill. These reasons are valid, but trust me when I say, it’s just not worth it.

In the best of cases, DIY Wills are often ineffective, and seriously hinder the chances that your wishes are followed.

In the worst of cases, they are deemed invalid by the courts and leave your loved ones scrambling to figure out what to do with your estate.

Please contact my office if you need to have a Will prepared. You will be happy you did!

Irina Bartnik Notary Public
#105 6758 188th Street
Surrey, BC (Clayton Area)
V4N-6K2
 
TEL (604) 575-7494
FAX (604)-579-0259 
www.ibnotary.com 
Please leave a review on Google. Thank you so much !
By Andy Schildhorn November 3, 2025
Looking for a place where you can ride horses in the morning, garden in the afternoon, and still make it to Costco or a downtown meeting in under 40 minutes? Glen Valley might be precisely what you're looking for. In this video, I’ll take you on a journey through one of Langley’s most unique and underrated communities. Tucked just east of Fort Langley, Glen Valley offers privacy, space, and rural charm—without giving up convenience. Whether you’re dreaming of a one-acre homestead, a family farm, or a secluded country estate near Thunderbird Show Park, Glen Valley has something special for you. πŸ“© Want daily listings and weekly sold updates for Glen Valley? ➑️ Sign up here: https://rly.forsale/Glen-Valley 🌿 In This Video: βœ… Where is Glen Valley located βœ… What types of properties are available βœ… Why it’s a top choice for horse lovers and nature seekers βœ… What it means to live “off the beaten path” βœ… How to get real-time updates on listings and sold prices πŸ“ž Ready to talk about buying or selling in Glen Valley? Let’s chat: πŸ“… https://calendly.com/andyschildhorn πŸ“ž 778.835.8957 πŸ“§ andy@andytherealtor.com 🌐 www.AndytheRealtor.com
By Andy Schildhorn October 31, 2025
Win beautiful original artwork while supporting local music and art! Featuring paintings by Janice Robertson , Richard McDiarmid , and Susan J. Falk — valued between $1,500 – $2,500 . 🎟️ Tickets: 1 for $20 | 3 for $50 | 7 for $100 πŸ“… Draw: Nov 16 | Fort Langley Community Hall πŸ‘‰ Get your tickets & details here
By Andy Schildhorn October 30, 2025
A roundup of Halloween displays as well as events during the scary season: Here are the local haunts that are all dolled up for Halloween and a list of the activities around the community. πŸ‘‰ More Details Here
More Posts