🚀 go-pugleaf

In article <1992May6.182343.29625@berlioz.nsc.com> mds@condor.nsc.com writes:
>
>My SO (SWF) and myself (SWM) are purchasing a home and will be
>living together as an unmarried couple in California. 
>We are concerned about protecting ourselves legally and financially.
>1) We are purchasing the home with approx. 60/40% difference
>   in funding between us. How do we protect that difference in equity? 

I think the deed can be written to show each parties interest in the
property.  You may want to be "tenants in common" vs. "Joint tenants".

>2) What happens to that equity and the house itself: a) upon marriage 
>   b) upon termination of the relationship?

Not sure about marriage, but upon termination, nothing.  If you can't live
together in the same house, then one of you will have to move out, or
you may be forced to sell and spilt the proceeds (or losses) based upon
how the deed was written.  A written, notarized contract will be a good
idea also.

>3) What happens to material purchases made towards the new home upon
>   termination of the relationship, i.e. furniture, appliances, etc.?
>   (I'm not concerned about what we both bring to the home that was
>    previously separately owned.)

A good question, I have wondering about that one also.

>4) How do we contractualize the ongoing living expenses and purchases
>   that apply to the house?

A contract.  This is starting to sound unromantic, isn't it?

>5) Can this be made simple, or do lawyers need to be used? (I would
>   prefer to write our own contract, and have it signed before a
>   Public Notary and witnessess.)

Get the book "The Living together kit", by Nolo Press.  It covers all the
question you have asked.  I have not yet read the book, but I did
buy it (I am in the same position as you), and I intend to read it soon.

>
>We're just trying to cover all the bases.......

You are wise:  I think it's a good idea, however my SO wonders...

Dave


--------
Dave Arnold - KD6IFY
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