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How can we sell our half of the duplex separately?

How can we sell our half of the duplex separately?

Q: Can you sell part of your duplex?

You can sell part of your duplex, but it usually requires legal action to clarify ownership rights. This may involve partitioning the property or obtaining consent from the co-owner. It's advisable to consult with a real estate attorney to navigate the legal requirements and ensure a smooth transaction.

Full question:

We bought a home 5 years ago -1/2 of a duplex. These duplexes used to be part of a condominium association many years ago. The original property owner of several of the condos died and the association officers just let the association dissolve. There was no record of a formal dissolution in the register of deeds when we purchased our home. Our duplex neighbor used a real estate attorney to separate the building - not the land. We are going to sell our property in 2010 and need advice about how to make sure our property can be sold separately from the other duplex. Would the legal action our neighbor took serve our needs, as well?

Category: Real Property
Subcategory: Partition
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Wisconsin

Answer:

I'm not sure what specific action your neighbor's attorney took, but it may involve partitioning the building. Partitioning typically allows co-owners to separate their interests in a property, either through sale or division. If your neighbor successfully partitioned the building, you should be able to sell your half without affecting the other half. However, check for any restrictive covenants in the deed that might limit property use. Since I can't provide legal advice, I recommend consulting your neighbor's attorney or another local attorney who can review your specific situation and documents.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is it hard to sell one side of a duplex?

Selling one side of a duplex can be challenging due to shared ownership and potential legal complexities. If the duplex is not legally divided, buyers may be hesitant. However, if you have successfully partitioned the property or have clear legal documentation, it can simplify the sale process. Always ensure that any restrictions or covenants are addressed before listing your property.

Can half of a duplex be sold?

Yes, half of a duplex can be sold, but it typically requires legal separation of the property interests. If the duplex is not formally divided, you may need to consult with a real estate attorney to ensure that the sale complies with local laws and any existing agreements. Proper documentation is crucial to avoid disputes with the co-owner.

Can you sell part of your duplex?

Do duplexes hold their value?

Duplexes can hold their value well, particularly in desirable neighborhoods. Factors such as location, condition, and market demand play significant roles in determining value. Additionally, owning a duplex can provide rental income, which may enhance its overall value. Regular maintenance and updates can also help retain or increase property value.

Are duplexes owned separately?

Duplexes can be owned separately if they are legally divided into distinct properties. This often involves partitioning the property or establishing separate deeds. If the duplex is still considered a single property, both sides are co-owned, which can complicate sales and ownership rights. Legal advice is recommended to clarify ownership structures.

Are duplexes hard to resell?

Reselling a duplex can be more complex than selling a single-family home, especially if the ownership structure is unclear. Factors such as market conditions, property condition, and legal ownership arrangements can affect resale ease. If the duplex is properly divided and well-maintained, it can attract buyers and facilitate a smoother sale.