Buying a Property with a Loved One: How to Avoid Future Conflicts
Planiprêt
Oct 20, 2025
Buying a home with a friend, family member, or partner can be an exciting adventure… but also full of pitfalls. While the idea of sharing costs and responsibilities is appealing, it comes with legal, financial, and emotional challenges. Here’s a guide to help you lay the right foundation and avoid future conflicts.
1. Key Clauses to Include in the Co-Ownership Agreement
Before even signing the purchase offer, it’s crucial to consult a notary to draft a clear and detailed co-ownership agreement. This agreement should include:
- Share distribution: who owns what, in percentage.
- Exit terms: what happens if one co-owner wants to sell or move out?
- Decision-making rules: how are major decisions made (renovations, refinancing, renting, etc.)?
- Financial responsibilities: who pays what, and how are unexpected costs handled?
2. Managing Expenses and Responsibilities
Transparency is key. It is recommended to:
- Open a joint bank account dedicated to property-related expenses.
- Keep a spending tracker (taxes, maintenance, repairs).
- Define in advance who handles what (insurance management, communication with providers, etc.).
A mortgage broker can also help you choose a product suited to your situation, such as a mortgage with two borrowers and one debt, or two borrowers with separate debts.
3. What to Do in Case of Disagreement or Separation
Even the best agreements can be tested. Here are some ways to reduce friction:
- Include a mediation clause in the agreement, in case of conflict.
- Define a buyout process: how one can buy out the other's share, at what price and under what terms.
- In case of separation (partners), quickly consult a professional to review mortgage obligations and property rights.
Summary
Buying a property with a loved one can be a great decision… if it’s well structured. As mortgage brokers, we always recommend planning for the unexpected and formalizing agreements from the start. This will save you headaches and allow you to fully enjoy your joint investment.
Buying a property with a loved one can be a great decision… if it’s well structured. As mortgage brokers, we always recommend planning for the unexpected and formalizing agreements from the start. This will save you headaches and allow you to fully enjoy your joint investment.
Need Personalized Support?
At Planipret, we’re here to guide you through every step of your real estate project. Whether you’re buying alone or with someone, our team of experienced brokers will help you choose the mortgage solution that fits your needs.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.
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