Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Pennsylvania

I purchased a home in Pennsylvania in May 2010, my name only appears on the deed.

My wife and I were married earlier this month, do I need to record a new deed which includes

her name to show her as joint owner of the property or does the fact that we are married

automatically grant her joint ownership of the property with me.


Asked on 8/22/10, 10:09 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

She is not automatically an owner by reason of your marriage.

Check with your lender for consent to the transfer. If you don't get the lender's consent, you may be required to pay the full amount of the mortgage immediately.

You should also consult with an estate planning lawyer about how to title the property. There are several ways in which you and your wife may be co-owners, and they may not all be appropriate to your situation.

This response is not legal advice, since I do not have all of the information that would be required, and I do not have a representation agreement with you.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 8/27/10, 11:43 am


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