Would it be possible to leverage unpaid taxes against other co-owners in order to “buy” their shares?

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Would it be possible to leverage unpaid taxes against other co-owners in order to “buy” their shares?

My siblings and I have owned real estate for over 15 years after our parents died; I’ve lived here for all these years (my parents gave me lifetime residency). My siblings are trying to hustle me to buy their portions of the property (with a total estimated value of 200k). Recently, I found out that since I’ve been solely paying taxes these last 15 years, they technically owe me money in backed taxes because nothing in the deed says I must solely pay taxes.

Asked on August 16, 2012 under Real Estate Law, New Jersey

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

Right, but the laws in your state may indicate otherwise in a life tenancy situation, which is what you have there.  A life tenant has the obligation to maintian the property during their lifetime and paying taxes is one of those obligations. They can not hustle you out of force you to sell as a life tenant.  Seek legal help. 


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