When it comes to finances, relationships can face numerous challenges. This holds particularly true when there’s a significant income disparity between partners. Establishing clear boundaries and financial plans, along with open communication, can help avoid many arguments. Nevertheless, the internet abounds with stories of couples encountering problems, and one woman turned to Reddit for advice regarding her situation.
The original poster (OP) sought opinions from users on the popular social media platform about her decision not to include her boyfriend’s name in the contract for the house she purchased. Her post, dated December 2021, garnered considerable attention, with most people supporting her after she described her circumstances.
In her post, she mentioned that she earns well and has been in a four-year relationship with her boyfriend. However, he lacks ambition and regularly switches between low-paying jobs.
The OP’s primary concern was that adding her boyfriend’s name to the home’s contract could lead to future complications, given his financial situation. Additionally, she covered all expenses, and her boyfriend did not contribute financially. Although her reasons were valid, her boyfriend became furious and stopped communicating with her when he learned he wouldn’t be included in the contract.
According to her post, the OP and her boyfriend had lived together in an apartment for two years, and everything was going well. She recently landed a new job with an annual salary of around $80k and wanted to move from the apartment to a house. Her boyfriend, on the other hand, lacked a strong work ethic and had held eight different minimum wage jobs during their four-year relationship.
While they were doing reasonably well, the OP expressed her desire to buy a house, and her boyfriend agreed. She had enough savings for a down payment and all closing costs, but her boyfriend lived paycheck to paycheck and had no savings. Although they split the rent evenly, the OP covered more expenses, which didn’t bother her boyfriend, as she earned more.
When the time came to buy the house, the OP wanted to be the only name on the home’s title, given that it was purchased with her savings, and they weren’t planning to marry anytime soon. Her boyfriend was unhappy with this decision, as he expected it to be their home together. The OP clarified that she viewed it as their home, but legally, it would only be in her name to protect her investment. This led to an argument, and her boyfriend stopped speaking to her.
One of the top comments supporting the OP highlighted the legal risks involved and recommended discussing options with lawyers and fiduciaries in the event of marriage. Another commenter advised the OP to stand her ground to protect herself financially, considering her boyfriend’s lack of financial contribution.
The majority of people who read her post agreed that she was doing the right thing and that her boyfriend’s expectations were unreasonable, given his lack of financial involvement in their home. Some even pointed out red flags in his behavior and encouraged the OP to reevaluate her relationship with him.”
Once his name is there he is a 50-50 owner regardless of his contribution. Cancel this relationship.