Girlfriend Moved Out

Expert, localized Los Angeles answers provided by Heather Roy

Girlfriend Moved Out
	My girlfriend and I bought a home in April 2007. We financed 100% of the loan ($206000) and she recently moved out and wants nothing to do with the mortgage. What should I do to protect myself so that in the future she won't gain finacially when I sell the home? I've tried to refinance in my name but the market is down and I don't have alot of equity.

	Unless your girlfriend has signed a deed turning over her share of the title to you, she remains a co-owner and I'm not sure you can claim her half of any buildup in equity. But keep track of the mortgage payments and property taxes you pay. When you sell, you should be able to claim some reimbursement from the proceeds, though on the other hand you are actually living in a house that's half owned by her and might owe her some rent! It would be a very good idea if you and she came to some written agreement right now about what would be fair. Going together to a real estate lawyer might be the best thing to do. Let me know what happens; I'm interested.
	Edith Originally published on April 29, 2008

	Back to Summary	< Previous \| Next >


SEARCH: Search for questions about Mortgage, Finance & Taxes