Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

Mortgage

My husband and I are scheduled to divorce within a few weeks. He is purchasing a house in his own name prior to the divorce being final. He has told me that I must attend his closing and sign some of his loan docs even though he is the sole borrower. Why would I need to sign any of his loan docs if I am not a co-borrower?

Thank you.


Asked on 9/17/03, 4:39 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Alexander M. Rosenfeld Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.

Re: Mortgage

You should review this with your divorce lawyer. He should provide the answers. If not, follow the advice given in the previous replies.

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Answered on 9/19/03, 8:57 pm
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Mortgage

You are probably being asked to sign a waiver of any rights you may have to his property. I would ask for the documents in advance so you can read them. If you have any questions speak with an attorney. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/17/03, 5:19 pm
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Mortgage

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 you are instructed to stop here, and do not read any further.

Under Florida law, the homestead of a party is not subject to the rights of any creditors unless the party has specifically agreed to waive this right. At the closing on a mortgage, a spouse is required to join in because the mortgage gives the lender rights to foreclose in case the borrower fails to pay the mortgage.

The lender will probably require you to execute the Mortgage, Truth In Lending, and possibly one or two other forms. You will not be required to (and should not) sign the Promissory Note. Accordingly, you will not be responsible to pay any monies if your husband fails to pay the mortgage.

I strongly suggest that you consult with a local real estate lawyer to review the specifics of this situation.

Scott R. Jay, Esq., 305-249-8000

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Answered on 9/17/03, 6:16 pm
Peter Gonzalez Sanchez-Medina, Gonzalez, Quesada, Lage, Crespo, Gomez & MachadoLLP

Re: Mortgage

You should request a copy of the documents in advance to review them or have them reviewed by a real estate lawyer to make certain that you are not agreeing to anything that may be unfavorable to your interests. If you are still legally married, the lender probably requires the borrower to have you sign documents waiving any rights you may have to the property. Do not sign the promissory note. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/18/03, 10:12 pm


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