Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Illinois

In June 2010, my wife and I sold our primary home via short sale. At closing, 1st lender was paid in full. 2nd (HELOC) got paid 10 percent, to release the lien only. I am the sole borrower of the HELOC. I was informed the 2nd lender has the right to pursue a deficiency judgment in future. In January 2010, my wife and I purchased an REO property with cash. With much pain, I emptied my 401k plus borrowed cash from family members to facilitate the cash purchase. So we now live in a house which we own free and clear. In March 2011, we changed our home ownership to "Tenancy by the Entirety" per friend’s advice. Here is my question. If down the road, I get served a deficiency judgment for the unpaid HELOC, is our home protected from the creditor (attaching lien, forcing sale, etc.)?


Asked on 10/20/11, 3:18 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Jonathan Shimberg Shimberg and Crohn, P.C.

As it was not a joint debt, the creditor can not go after the house. (unless and until your wife dies before you)

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Answered on 10/23/11, 4:50 pm


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