Expert: Sue Bernstein - 2/27/2009

Question
My husband and I recently purchased a second home as our primary residence.  The first home became our rental property.  During the buying and financing process, we were told that we would need to bring in a co-borrower on our primary residence to qualify for both our properties.  My brother decided on his brother.  When all the paperwork was being finalized, we were told since it was fha that myself and my brother-in-laws wife would have to sign a quit-claim deed.  We did.  My husband and I weren't to worried since the deed was stated at the notary signing "A married man as his sole and separate property" for both men. We thought that our new will would cover any questions regarding myself and our children in regards to the new home.  When the paperwork came from our county, after it had been registered, it read "A married man as his sole and separate property as Joint Tenants".  We never signed that is stated that. Now, we don't think anything will happen to my husband, but we are very concerned about this.  Is there anyway to change a grant deed?

Answer
Lori,

You can have the deed changed from joint tenancy to tenants in common or whatever you all feel is best.  An agent cannot advise you as to which is the right one for you but it can be easily changed as long as everyone is in agreement.

Hope this helps.

Sue Bernstein