Ann Arbor, MI asked in Real Estate Law for Michigan

Q: I have a quit claim deed from my aunt. What do we do when she passes to prevent the home from being ransacked by relati

What about extended stay in the hospital? Other relatives have keys.

Do we need a lawyer to change the locks? Install cameras? It transfers ownership immediately.

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2 Lawyer Answers

A: You seem to be unsure about your rights and responsibilities. If you intend to treat the quit claim deed as effective, record it with the register of deeds, take control of the home (including changing the locks) and act like an owner. You do not need a lawyer to change the locks unless there are fact that you have omitted, such as someone else residing in the home. If that is the case, you may need to go to court to evict person who live there.

Kenneth V Zichi agrees with this answer

A: Are you SURE the deed acts to immediately transfer ownership? Has it been recorded? Mr Morris is correct, but if you're still uncertain, 'asking on the internet' is not going to net you actual legal advice. I would urge you to consult with your own lawyer or at least the one who drafted the deed (it WAS done by a lawyer and not just 'someone' right?) so you can get actual legal advice.

Don't be penny wise and pound foolish about this -- legal advice will save you a lot of hassle and expense in the long run.

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