Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

responsibility

The house in question was in my husbands name before we refinanced it in February of this year. On the refinance paperwork I was put on as the non borrowing spouse. Am I now responsible for the debt owed on the house? If so can I sell the house without him?


Asked on 9/12/06, 6:31 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: responsibility

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 stop right here, and do not read any further.

Without reviewing the paperwork from the refinance, I can only guess as to your legal status. Based on the limited information you have provided it sounds as if you were required to sign the mortgage but not the note. This is required by lenders in order to be able to foreclose on the property in case your husband fails to make the required mortgage payments without having any possible defenses or issues regarding the property being your homestead.

If you did not sign the Promissory Note, then you are not responsible for the repayment of the debt.

By signing the Mortgage, you did not gain any ownership interest in the residence. This can only be done by a deed or a court order. You can not sell the residence. From what you have said, it is your husband's although you may have a claim to some portion of any future sale.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 9/12/06, 11:58 am


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