If you’ve been dreaming of buying a home but your finances aren’t strong enough to qualify, you may want to partner up with another family member or roommate in the same situation. By pooling your resources together, you’ll be in a much better position to buy a home. One benefit of cobuying with your roommates is there will be less adjustment because you’re already living together.

One type of property to consider is a dwelling with separate units, like a duplex or triplex. Each of you would enjoy the benefits of a separate entrance, kitchen, and more. While you may physically be living in separate units, you still have the joint responsibility regarding ownership and maintenance costs associated with the land and roof.

Another less costly alternative is to purchase a single dwelling and share the space together. One major problem with this arrangement is you would have to sacrifice your own private space. If you and the co-owner still decide to enter into this kind of arrangement, try buying a home with a layout that allows you separate private areas.

Buying a home with a co-owner has unique concerns and major financial issues. Be sure to sit down and discuss all possible scenarios with your future co-owner. One major issues will be in regards to how the down payment and monthly expenditures will be divided. Will everyone agree to split everything equally or will there be a percentage split based upon the amount of down payment contributed, who gets the larger bedroom, and other issues. There can be tax implications depending on the division of ownership.

Another significant concern is what happens to a co-owner’s portion of the property when he or she dies? Will his or her heirs have rights to it? How will you deal with circumstances where one co-owner decides to move out-does he or she have the option to sell his or her portion of the home, require the other co-buyers to buy his or her portion out, or force the sale of the property?

Knowing which form of title to list on the property deed shouldn’t be taken lightly. Some typical forms of ownership include tenants in common or joint tenants with the right of survivorship. Consult with an experienced attorney who can advise you on the most suitable form of ownership for your needs.

Some additional concerns that should be addressed are what length of time does everyone plan on staying in the property (and what are the options when one owner gets married or their parents need extended care); how will the common areas be maintained (cleaning, home supplies, music volume, and overnight guests); decorating the house, and what happens when one owner gets into financial problems.

Buying a home jointly with another party is a huge commitment and it’s vital you choose the right person to partner with. Be sure to discuss all issues with your future co-owner and put the agreement in writing with the help of an attorney.

Want to find out more about buying a home in Orange County, CA? Check out these Tustin realtors and Yorba Linda Realtors to help you find one!


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