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Selling a home to friends or family

On Behalf of | Feb 19, 2019 | Residential Real Estate |

When a California resident decides to sell a home to a friend or family member, they may be happy about the transaction. However, the choice can come with its own complications. Buying or selling a home is already a somewhat complex process that is often one of the biggest transactions in a person’s life. As a result, a sale between friends or family can come with the complications that accompany a combination of business and private life. In the first place, there is no arms-length transaction with a close relative or best friend; both parties know a great deal about each other’s lifestyles and financial situations.

This means that it may be easier to come to an agreement, but it can also be easier for one party to judge the other or become angered due to a particular request or demand. In addition, both sides know the other’s emotional triggers and weaknesses, something that could easily cause a problem during negotiations. The buyer may also know about other pressures on the seller, such as the planned purchase of another new home. As a result, buyers may be less likely to raise their offers. Because of this, a seller engaging in a real estate deal with someone they love may be well-advised to keep their business private during the negotiation process.

These transactions can be especially complex when there is already tension between the two parties. Some property transactions can be drawn out over longer periods of time, or business matters about the home may be seen as reflective of emotional ties.

Whether one is selling their home to friends, family members or complete strangers, they could benefit from working with a residential real estate lawyer. An attorney can help a client negotiate an agreement and draw up a contract for a successful sale.

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