Reply To: What happens to our house?

I’m sorry to hear that you’re going through a breakup after buying a house together. This can be a complex situation, and it’s important to handle it with care. Here’s a general guide on steps you might consider taking, but remember that this is not legal advice, and you should consult a solicitor for your specific circumstances.

1. Communication: The first step is to try and have an open and honest conversation with your ex-boyfriend about the situation. It’s important to establish what both parties want to do with the property.
2. Legal Advice: You should seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. In the UK, how the property is dealt with will depend on whether you are joint tenants or tenants in common, and if there is a declaration of trust or a cohabitation agreement in place.
3. Buyout: One option is for one of you to buy the other out. This would involve having the property valued and one party paying the other for their share.
4. Sell the Property: If neither of you can or wants to take over the mortgage, selling the property and splitting the proceeds according to your ownership shares may be the best option.
5. Mortgage: You will need to speak to your mortgage lender to discuss the situation. If one person is taking over the mortgage, they will need to be able to afford the payments on their own.
6. Mediation: If you can’t agree, mediation might be a good step before legal action. A mediator can help you come to an agreement without the cost and stress of court proceedings.
7. Court: As a last resort, if you cannot agree, you may need to go to court to have a judge decide on the division of the property.
8. Personal Wellbeing: During this time, it’s also important to take care of your emotional well-being. Consider reaching out to friends, family, or professional counselors for support.