Aboutliznarr Expertise I can answer questions relating to the purchase and/or sale of residential homes and land, including what a really good agent should be expected to do and/or not do; where to turn when problems occur; and questions regarding disclosure. I`m a Licensed Realtor in the Southeast since 1984 with designations of Broker, GRI, CRS, and CBR (Certified Buyer Representative). Current active and Life Member of Million Dollar Club, Certified by State Real Estate Commission to teach Pre-Licensing and Continuing Education courses, specializing in Agency. Currently serving on Grievance and Professional Standards Committees, and Education Committee in past.
Question Hello, I'm all set to purchase my first home; closing date, inspected, appraised. However, a title search discoverd back child support that I owe. My paycheck has been garnished since the order of support been in place. The problem is that my child's mother was collecting public assistance without my knowledge prior to us going to court. I've always taken good care of my child, but due to her greed I'm accountable. What are my options outside of paying the amount of $4,216 in arrears that I don't have? Will this ruin my chances of purchasing the home? Thanks in advance for your propmpt response.
Answer Hi Larry,
I apologize for the delay in responding. I have been out of town for a few days, and I failed to “check out” on the All Experts’ site prior to leaving.
Your question is more of a legal one, and I am not qualified to give legal advice.
You should contact a good attorney in your area and ask some pointed questions about the child support and what other options might be available to you. A couple questions that come to mind for me are:
1. With your paycheck being garnished, does that include an additional amount for the back support due?
2. If your child’s mother was collecting public assistance, was that “in addition to” payments you were (or supposed to be) making?
If your child’s mother was not legally entitled to collect public assistance in addition to claiming child support due from you for the same period of time, would she be required to pay back the public assistance she received if you pay the back support for the period she was collecting? If so, you may want to notify the proper authorities to investigate her.
As to your question of whether or not the back support due will ruin your chances of purchasing a home, this would be a question better directed to your lender. Your lender is the one who can give you the best advice there, as he/she knows the type loan you applied for and what the qualifications are for your debt ratio, loan-to-value, etc.
Sorry I did not have more answers for you, but I do wish you good luck in the purchase of your home. And feel free to write again if you have additional questions.
