Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

owner financed property

My Dad owner financed a lot for a lady. The deed is already in her name. She makes the last payment this month. Dad passed away last year and left everything to me. How do I handle this? thanks


Asked on 7/23/07, 9:00 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: owner financed property

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

If a mortgage was given by the woman and filed with the clerk of the court (which is the proper procedure), it will have to be satisfied. A Satisfaction of Mortgage will have to be signed by the Personal Representative of your dad's estate unless the mortgage was transferred through the probate to his heirs. If so, it would be satisfied by whomever inherited the mortgage. If an estate was never filed, it will probably have to be filed at this point so that the mortgage can be properly satisfied. Florida law requires that a satisfaction be provided and recorded within 60 days of receipt of the last payment. Failure to do so is a criminal violation under Florida law.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 7/23/07, 9:41 am
Frank J. Pyle Probate Attorney Throughout Florida

Re: owner financed property

The prior answer is correct. However, if no probate took place, it can probably be handled through a Summary Probate, which is much faster and less expensive than having a personal representative appointed (formal probate). Te probate would be filed in the county where your father resided.

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Answered on 7/23/07, 9:57 am


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