Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania
If my brother and I own a home (no mortgage) and I no longer live there -- am I still entitled to pay half of the Homeowners Insurance (monthly) and House Taxes (yearly)?
Asked on 6/02/10, 12:12 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Yes. As a co-owner, you are obligated to contribute to the upkeep and maintenance. If you do not want the home, why not have your brother buy out your share of the property? Agree to get it appraised and split the value, minus your share of the upkeep and his share of the rent minus anything which he paid over and above his share? He could take out an equity loan to pay you for your share.
If he is unwilling to buy you out, get a real estate lawyer and bring what is called a partition action. You can force a sale of the property this way.
Answered on 6/03/10, 2:37 pm