Can I turn my house over to county ifI can’t sell it?
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Can I turn my house over to county ifI can’t sell it?
My home was devastated by last years floods. Flood insurance funds were used to pay the mortgage off in full. I have been trying to sell the property (house is useless) but no bites. Can I just give the keys to the county and walk away from the house/land? I want to put this behind me and move on.
Asked on August 20, 2010 under Real Estate Law, Georgia
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Since you have no mortgage, you are not in a foreclosure situation and that is first of all a good thing. Have you considered using a different broker or agent to help you sell the home or possibly working with non profit agencies in obtaining the home from you? Talk to your local political leaders about what programs may be available locally, statewide or federally. Further, consider speaking with HUD (housing and urban development); the local chapter should be able to help you.
You can certainly simply turn over the keys to someone but understand if you simply walk away, the city or county may consider action against you for simply abandoning the property and causing any damage to the neighborhood. So, take heed that there are probably programs out there, just be diligent in looking for it.
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