Hello. My neighbor is 95 years old and is not likely going to live another year. She’s accepted this fact. She owns a nice home by herself and it is hers; as in, she owns the home and only pays down a loan (not sure the exact name of it) that she pulled out for home renovations.
She briefly discussed giving us the house to ensure her step-son doesn’t get it. I don’t know specifics, but I know she and the step son do not get along and she would roll in her grave if he was able to get the property. She has no other family or children.
Would it be wise to “purchase” this property? What steps do I need to take? I know for a fact this is not as easy as it sounds, and I have never owned a house before.
But since me and this woman have a great relationship, she’s willing to give over the keys once she passes (and she’s accepted that this is going to happen, hence why she’s trying to make arrangements)
Any insight at all appreciated. I have no idea what I’m doing. If you need specific details, please comment! Thanks!
Netizens’ comments
- You better thank your lucky stars you lived next to this woman, and be careful about what the step son might do in retaliation. I love to only think about the good in people, but if this lady would roll in her grave before giving it to him, I imagine he’s a bad person, so just heads up on that front.
- Just an additional thing to consider: make a video of her in the lawyer’s office with impartial witnesses as she attests for the camera that she is competent and does NOT want the stepson to inherit.
My husband and I were the witnesses for an elderly neighbor who did not want one relative to have any share in her estate, and wanted it all to go to another relative. Our neighbor took everyone to lunch and we made the video in the restaurant. This was years ago before cellphones. We had to show up in court when her estate was probated, but other than that it went smoothly. - I’m not a lawyer, but she needs a lawyer to advise her. Otherwise you may be accused of manipulating her.
- Lawyer and iron clad in writing. This happened with our next door neighbor. Similar situation and she promised the house to the family next door who she had known for 30 years.