If Iowned a house prior to being married, does my wife now become co-owner of the house automatically?
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If Iowned a house prior to being married, does my wife now become co-owner of the house automatically?
I owned and have been paying for my house for over 13 years. I got married 4 months ago. Do I need her to sign off on the house if I decided to sell? She is foreign national and she did not ever work in the US.
Asked on June 23, 2011 under Family Law, North Carolina
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Generallyspeaking, assets that were yours before the marriage remain yours during and after the marriage unless there is a co-mingling of assets (like bank accounts or added someone to the deed) or there is shown an intent that you wished the asset to become marital property. You may want to consult with an attorney in your area regarding the house and regarding a post nuptial agreement with your spouse as to the asset. If you were to sell it a buyer's attorney might want some affidavit from your wife that she has no interest in the property. You alone would only need to sign the contract and closing documents. Good luck.
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