Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey
One party wants to sell house; other party doesn't
I've recently been put in a situation
where I want to move out of a
property in which I have been paying
the mortgage for six years (the
mortgage has been only under my
name for the past 3 years). The deed
is under both mine and my mother's
name, and she refuses to sell. What
are my legal rights in this matter?
My mother also has a history of
mental illness and is completely
dependent on me [though not
legally], and if you could also guide
me as to how I can place her in a
community with people like her, it
would be appreciated.
Thank you.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: One party wants to sell house; other party doesn't
If you and your mother are both on the deed, then very likely you have a Judge order that the property be sold (a lawsuit for 'partition or sale').
This sounds like there are several other issues involved that an attorney could help you with.
Please call my office if I can assist you. You can then decide how you would like to proceed.
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Re: One party wants to sell house; other party doesn't
As to the house, if two people own a house and one wants to sell, the only way to force the situation is to file a lawsuit called a Partition Action. However, since it is your mother, you may not want to go that route.
As to her "placement", if you feel she cannot not take care of herself or make good decisions for herself, you can file a guardainship action. You would need the opinion of two doctors that she is unable to care for herself and notify any other close relatives of your actions. Once the Court appoints a Guardian, the Court then agree to the sale of the house with at least half the proceeds being held for your mother's benefit. You would be entitled to some credit for your payments and upkeep of the house. If you want to discuss this further, please call for an appointment.