Understanding Joint Tenants vs Tenants in Common: Which One is Right for You?
Are you planning to buy property with someone else or are you considering selling your property with a co-owner? If so, you might have come across the legal terms ‘joint tenants’ and ‘tenants in common.’ While these terms may sound confusing, they can have a significant impact on the property ownership rights and obligations of co-owners. In this article, we will explore the differences between joint tenants and tenants in common and help you determine which one is right for your specific situation.
What Does ‘Tenants In Common’ Mean?
Tenants in common refers to the situation where two or more people own a property together, but their ownership interest is separate. The percentage of ownership can vary, and co-owners can agree to own the property in equal or unequal shares. For instance, one co-owner can hold a 30% interest, while another co-owner holds the remaining 70%.
When one of the co-owners passes away, their share of the property does not automatically transfer to the other co-owners. Instead, their share becomes part of their Estate and will be distributed according to their will or the laws of intestacy if they do not have a will. This means that the surviving co-owners may end up owning the property with the deceased co-owner’s heirs or beneficiaries.
What Does ‘Joint Tenants’ Mean?
Joint tenants refers to the situation where two or more people own a property together, and they have equal ownership interests. Unlike tenants in common, the co-owners in a joint tenancy do not own a specific share of the property. Instead, they own the property jointly, and their interests cannot be divided.
When one of the joint tenants passes away, their share of the property automatically transfers to the surviving joint tenant or tenants. This is known as the ‘right of survivorship.’ The surviving joint tenant(s) will own the entire property, and the deceased joint tenant’s share will not form part of their estate.
Joint Tenancy vs Tenancy In Common: Which One is Right for You?
When purchasing a property with another person, it is essential to consider the type of co-ownership that best suits your needs. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between joint tenancy and tenancy in common:
1. Relationship Status
If you are purchasing a property with your spouse or a long-term partner, joint tenancy might be the best option. Joint tenancy is often used by couples as it ensures that the surviving partner inherits the property without going through probate. It also provides the surviving partner with the security of knowing that they will not lose their share of the property upon the death of their partner.
On the other hand, tenants in common is an ideal option for friends or business partners who want to hold property together, but with separate ownership interests.
2. Estate Planning
If you have specific estate planning needs, tenants in common might be a better option. With tenants in common, you can leave your share of the property to whomever you choose, regardless of who the other co-owners are. This is especially useful if you want to pass your share of the property to someone who is not a co-owner, such as a child or a charity.
However, if you want to ensure that your co-owner(s) inherit your share of the property, joint tenancy might be a better option.
3. Protection against Creditors
Tenants in common provides greater protection against creditors than joint tenancy. If one of the co-owners is sued or goes bankrupt, their share of the property can be seized by creditors. In a tenancy in common, the creditor would only be able to seize the debtor’s share, not the entire property. In contrast, in a joint tenancy, creditors can seize the entire property as it is owned jointly.
Additionally, in a tenancy in common, one co-owner can sell or mortgage their share without the consent of the other co-owners. This can be beneficial if a co-owner needs to raise money or wants to sell their share, but it can also create issues if the other co-owners do not agree with the sale or mortgage.
Overall, tenants in common and joint tenancy are two different ways to own property with other people. The choice between them depends on the specific situation and the goals of the co-owners. It is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a decision. Consulting with a real estate attorney or financial advisor can also be helpful in making an informed decision.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Joint Tenancy vs Tenancy in Common
Before deciding on the type of ownership that is right for you, it’s essential to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Joint Tenancy
Benefits
• Automatic transfer of property: With joint tenancy, if one owner dies, the other owner automatically inherits the property. This can be beneficial for couples who want to ensure that their partner is taken care of after their death.
• No probate: Because the property automatically passes to the surviving owner, there is no need for probate. This can save time and money.
Drawbacks
• Unequal ownership: Joint tenancy doesn’t allow for unequal ownership. Each owner owns an equal share of the property, regardless of their contribution to its purchase.
• Tax implications: If you own property as joint tenants, you may not be able to take advantage of tax benefits that are available to married couples.
Tenancy in Common
Benefits
• Flexible ownership: With tenancy in common, co-owners can own unequal shares of the property, allowing for a more flexible arrangement.
• No forced sale: If one owner dies, their share of the property goes to their estate. This means that the other owners cannot force a sale of the property.
Drawbacks
• No automatic transfer of property: If one owner dies, their share of the property does not automatically pass to the other owners. This means that the surviving owners may need to go through the probate process to acquire the deceased owner’s share.
• Potential conflict: If the co-owners cannot agree on the management of the property, it can lead to conflict.
FAQs
Can I change from joint tenancy to tenancy in common?
Yes, you can change from joint tenancy to tenancy in common at any time, as long as all owners agree to the change. The process involves completing a form and recording the new ownership arrangement with the Land Registry.
Can I sell my share of a property if I own it as a tenant in common?
Yes, if you own a property as a tenant in common, you can sell your share of the property without the agreement of the other co-owners. However, you will need to find a buyer who is willing to purchase your share.
Can I leave my share of the property to someone other than the co-owner if I own it as a tenant in common?
Yes, if you own a property as a tenant in common, you can leave your share of the property to whomever you choose in your will.
Does ownership terms (joint tenants and tenants in common) laws and regulations change with each state or territoy for example Queensland to New South Wales?
Yes, the laws and regulations regarding ownership terms, such as joint tenants and tenants in common, may differ from state to state or territory. It is important to understand the specific laws and regulations in the state or territory where the property is located, as they may affect how ownership is divided and managed. It is recommended to seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the relevant legislation and to fully understand the implications of different ownership terms.
Is negotiation required when deciding between joint tenancy and tenancy in common?
Yes, negotiation may be necessary to determine which type of ownership is most suitable for all parties involved. It is important to consider factors such as investment goals, tax implications, and potential risks before making a decision.
Is disclosure necessary when entering into a joint tenancy or tenancy in common?
Yes, disclosure is essential to ensure that all parties involved are fully aware of the terms of ownership and potential risks involved. This may include disclosure of any existing liens or encumbrances on the property, as well as any potential disputes that may arise.
How can risk be managed when entering into joint tenancy or tenancy in common?
Risk management is critical when entering into any type of property ownership arrangement. This may involve obtaining appropriate insurance coverage, developing clear agreements and protocols for managing disputes, and conducting due diligence on potential co-owners to ensure they are financially stable and reliable.
What regulations apply to joint tenancy and tenancy in common arrangements?
The specific regulations governing joint tenancy and tenancy in common may vary depending on the state or territory where the property is located. It is important to consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
The decision to own property as joint tenants or tenants in common is an important one, and it’s essential to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option before making a decision. While joint tenancy can be beneficial for couples who want to ensure that their partner is taken care of after their death, tenancy in common can provide more flexibility and control over ownership.
If you are unsure which type of ownership is right for you, it’s essential to seek legal advice from a conveyancer or solicitor to help you make an informed decision that suits your needs.
This is general advice only, for specific legal advice contact an expert legal representative.
