Derek dies intestate (i.e., without a will) and is survived by a daughter, Ruth, and a grandson, Ted (Ruth's son). Derek's assets include a large portfolio of stocks and bonds and a beach house. Ruth has considerable wealth of her own, while Ted has just finished college and is unemployed. Under applicable state law, the order of priority as to heirship favors children followed by grandchildren.
a. To minimize future transfer taxes, what action might Ruth take?
b. What if Ruth wants only the beach house?