Q: My brother and I are on the house deed. I want to take my name out by doing a quit claim deed.
Does my brother have to pay property tax. His name is still on the grant deed. I only want to take my out.
A:
Yes, your brother will still need to pay property taxes after you remove your name through a quit claim deed. The property tax obligation follows the property itself, not individual owners.
When you file a quit claim deed to remove yourself, it doesn't change the fundamental tax responsibilities associated with the property. Your brother, as the remaining owner, will become fully responsible for paying all property taxes. The tax assessor's office will continue to assess and bill taxes based on the property value, regardless of ownership changes.
It's important to note that while removing your name through a quit claim deed releases you from future property responsibilities, it doesn't automatically remove you from any existing mortgage or other liens. If there's a mortgage on the property, you'll need to work with the lender to remove your name from that obligation as well. Consider consulting with a real estate attorney to ensure all aspects of the ownership transfer are handled properly and your interests are protected.
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