Do I have any legal rights in a home that I paid the downpayment on but which is in my ex-wife’s name?
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Do I have any legal rights in a home that I paid the downpayment on but which is in my ex-wife’s name?
My wife and I married 16 years ago and divorced 4 years alter. We reunited 4 years ago (not married ) have 2 sons. I am a contractor and due to the decline in construction we made a decision to move to the state in which both of our parents had retired. I found a house online; my mom was the realtor. I supplied the $10,000 down payment but my name is not on the loan (my credit was shot at that time). We have lived in the house for 4 years now and I have done extensive remodeling. We have again decided to go our separate ways. Do I have any legal rights to the home?
Asked on October 25, 2011 under Real Estate Law, Montana
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
You need to consult with an attorney about the specifics of your situations, since the details and facts are critical.
First, regardless of whose name is on the mortgage, whose name is one the title? It's not always the case that the mortgagor is necessarily the owner, or vice versa. If your name is on the title to the home, you should be an owner. Your question is unclear about whether only the mortgage or the mortgage and title are both solely in your ex-wife's name.
Second, even if your name is not on the title, it may be possible to establish some equitable interest in the home based on providing a down payment, helping pay mortgage or taxes, investing in remolding, etc. A lot will turn on both the exent of investments you made and also on the intention of you and your ex-wife at the time. This is where you have to discuss the situation in detail with an attorney, so he or she can evaluate your rights. Good luck.
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