Last month I read an interesting article from Coldwell Banker about couples who are buying homes together before they get married. A survey was conducted which “revealed that 1 in 4 young couples are buying a home together before tying the knot”.

“…buying a home together has become “the new engagement ring” for some young couples. The homebuying process forces couples to deal with their competing feelings of money and how to spend it, and that is why successfully purchasing a home with someone else is deemed a significant accomplishment in any relationship. It means the couple has been able to overcome their differences in an effort to create a better future together.”

The survey found that 24% of couples who buy a home before they are married are 18 – 24 years old. When I bought my first house, I was 21 years old and it was with my (then) fiance…many years ago! 🙂

When couples buy together, before they are married (or if they never plan on marrying), they need to consider how they will vest on title. This is important because if either person passes away, how they hold title (vesting) may determine what happens to the home. Most often, vesting is determined a home is purchased by the language on the deed. Two single people who own a home together have different rights than a married couple in Washington state.

I’m not an attorney and I’m feeling a bit like “Debbie Downer” discussing this tidbit…but it is important to consider. Here are two brochures provided by title companies that you can review with your attorney to discuss how to vest in title.

And don’t miss this video of Tim Daniels, Title Officer discussing different ways to take title for real property in Washington state.

If you are considering buying a home anywhere in Washington state and need help with your home loan mortgage, I’m happy to help you!