Selling a jointly-owned residential property can present various challenges. The initial step involves ensuring that all co-owners are in consensus regarding the sale and possess legal documentation that verifies their respective ownership shares.
Once agreement is reached among all parties, the subsequent step is to assess the property’s value. This assessment can be conducted through a professional appraisal or by examining the market value of comparable properties in the vicinity. You need to take the following steps while selling a jointly-owned property:
Identify a buyer
It is essential to locate a buyer who is prepared to purchase the property at the mutually-agreed price. Marketing efforts can include online advertisements, local newspaper listings, and other promotional avenues.
Seek legal counsel
Engaging a lawyer with expertise in property law is crucial to comprehend the legal ramifications of selling a jointly-owned property and the distribution of shares.
Also Read: Mutual Fund Investment: 10 strategies to boost your mutual fund returns
Reach an agreement on terms
All co-owners must come to a consensus on the sale terms, which encompass the sale price, distribution of proceeds, and allocation of expenses.
Establish ownership shares
The ownership share of each co-owner should be clearly defined, typically based on the percentage of their financial contribution towards the purchase price or as stipulated in the co-owners’ agreement.
Obtain a property valuation
A registered valuer should appraise the property to ascertain its market value. Following this valuation, it is advisable to engage a real estate agent to facilitate the selling process. A real estate agent can assist in marketing the property, identifying potential buyers, and negotiating the sale on behalf of the co-owners. The agent can also provide guidance on any legal obligations or taxes related to property sales in India.
Furthermore, promoting the property through online platforms and local newspapers can enhance visibility to prospective buyers. Conducting open houses is also beneficial, as it allows potential buyers to inspect the property
Examine Financial Obligations
If you are not residing in the same property or are located at a considerable distance, it is essential to review all financial obligations associated with the property. You should inspect the original sale deed, which should indicate whether there are any outstanding loans or mortgages on the property. This step is vital to prevent any potential legal conflicts with the prospective buyer.
Draft and Execute the Sale Agreement
A sale agreement must be meticulously drafted and signed by all co-owners and the buyer, detailing the terms of the sale and the distribution of proceeds.
Transfer of Ownership
Upon the completion of the sale, the ownership of the property must be officially transferred to the buyer, and the proceeds should be allocated among the co-owners according to the agreed-upon terms. It is important to recognize that if the co-owners cannot come to a consensus regarding the terms of the sale and the distribution of proceeds, they may need to pursue legal action to resolve the matter. In such instances, the court will make a determination based on the evidence provided by each party.
It is important to verify that the property possesses all necessary legal approvals from local authorities to avoid future financial liabilities. If you intend to secure a home loan for the purchase, it is crucial to assess your loan eligibility. This assessment should take into account factors such as your credit score, income, employment status, and existing debt obligations.
Additionally, you should consult with the lender to ascertain the maximum loan amount for which you may qualify. When acquiring a jointly-owned property, it is imperative to consider the financial implications of the purchase, in addition to verifying the legality of the property, to ensure a smooth transaction. and make informed decisions. Once a buyer is secured, a sale agreement should be drafted and signed by all co-owners to complete the transaction.