They offered $541,000 because the property was occupied and because I wanted an expedited closing.
Six months earlier, I would have considered losing that much equity insanity.
That afternoon, it felt like the price of freedom.
Still, I had spent too many years surviving to make an emotional financial decision.
I called my attorney.
His name was Martin Shaw, and he had handled my divorce.
“Please tell me you’re not calling because your ex came back,” he said.
“No.”
“Good. Then my afternoon is already improving.”
“I want to sell the Cedar Ridge house.”
Silence.
“The one your mother occupies?”
“Yes.”
“With your siblings?”
“Yes.”
“Do they have a lease?”
“No.”
“Do they pay rent?”
“No.”
“Any written agreement giving them ownership or lifetime occupancy?”
“No.”
Martin paused.
“What happened?”
I told him.
Not everything.
Just enough.
When I finished, he exhaled slowly.
“First, do not lock anyone out illegally. Second, do not touch their belongings. Third, we verify the applicable occupancy and notice requirements before you sign anything promising vacant possession.”
