Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Oregon

Reimbursement for gifts/repairs?

My boyfriend and I decided to buy houses, fix them, and either rent or sell. I bought two homes in my name only and he one home in his name only. He paid for many of the repairs on both of my homes. At the time, we had just started dating and I asked him not to pay or to let me pay him back. He called them gifts and said if I wrote him a check, he'd just tear it up. We broke up three months ago and he sent me a bill for $10,000. $5,000 for materials, $5,000 for his share of the increase in property value. He kept receipts of each purchase. One house was refinanced, which is where he got the $5,000. He did not pay closing costs, interest, taxes, etc... I just received an attorney letter in the mail telling me I have 10 days to pay. Does he have any chance of winning this?


Asked on 1/17/03, 10:05 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Zusman Evans & Zusman, P.C.

Re: Reimbursement for gifts/repairs?

Yes, he has a chance, especially if his version of the facts differs from yours (which is usually the case). You need to respond to the attorney demand and let them know you are contesting this claimed liability. This may be a case in which attorney fees can be awarded, so the stakes may be higher than you think. Do not ignore the matter in hopes it will go away. If you want to discuss this matter with an attorney, you can get in touch with me at the e-mail address below. My phone number is 503-241-5550. Regardless whether you call me, you should get some help in dealing with this matter unless you and your ex can resolve it between yourselves. Good luck.

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Answered on 1/17/03, 1:36 pm


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