Dear Harry: Our sister has been living in our mother's house since mother died in 1994. The original cost of the house was $6,000 back in 1949. She lives there with her son and three grandchildren with the understanding that she is responsible for the property taxes and the upkeep of the property. Some time ago, we found out that the taxes are years behind, and the house appears to be falling apart around her with a leaking roof, broken banisters, malfunctioning stove and who knows what else. Each time we tell her that we want to sell the house, she pleads and cries for us to give her time to get it shaped-up and the taxes paid. My other sister, my brother and I want to sell it and split the proceeds among the four of us, but we're not sure of how to go about it since she refuses to go along. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
What Harry says: I assume that the house is presently titled to the four of you in equal shares. If she refuses to sell, you will have to go to court to get permission to do this without her consent. That could be costly and nasty. You did not indicate what the house is worth today, but from what you said, it probably won't bring much in its present condition and in today's market. Unless you are in dire need of your share of the proceeds, what is the possibility of the three of you helping her to get on her feet by paying for some of the taxes and costs of repair? After all, she is your sister.