How Relationship Changes Can Impact Title Obligations

05/06/2026 11:26 AM Mark Goodman

Relationship changes not only affect you on a personal level, but they can also have an impact on properties that you and your former partner held together. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at how different relationship changes can impact title obligations.

Relationship Changes And Your Property Title

Relationship changes can trigger specific actions that must be taken in order for a property’s title to remain in good standing. Let’s take a closer look at some common relationship changes and how they may impact a property’s title.

Death - Property typically transfers to the surviving spouse in the event that one partner passes away, but it’s not always as simple as obtaining a death certificate. If the surviving spouse was never listed on the title, or the property isn’t a primary residence, other steps may need to be taken in order to ensure the title cleanly transfers to the surviving spouse. If the surviving spouse ends up passing away, the property will be divided based on what is stated in a will or as per the terms of the probate process.
Divorce - A title can become cloudy even when the divorce is amicable, and it will likely become an issue if the divorce is contentious. Even if one party “got the house” in the divorce, the other party will likely need to sign paperwork or have divorce papers filed to ensure a title remains clear. Requirements vary by state, so consult with a title professional if you want to ensure defects don’t develop on a title after a divorce.
Break Ups - Sometimes a couple will purchase a business or a commercial property before marriage, only to break up. Depending on how the property was purchased, only one individual may be named on the title despite contributions from both parties. It’s very wise to consult with a title professional prior to purchasing commercial property with a partner so that your interests are protected in the event you end up breaking up. If you’re not named on the title, you may not have much say in asset division if you never end up married.
Remarried - Getting remarried in and of itself rarely causes issues unless there were unresolved title issues from a divorce or a death. Title issues that were never specifically addressed because of an amicable divorce may need to be settled upon remarriage, or if the terms of a will dictate that remarriage triggers a different type of asset division, these factors will need to be considered. Remarriage is rarely a cause for a title issue, but that’s not to say it’s never a problem.

We understand that relationships can change unexpectedly, and that can cause problems for your properties and their titles. Let us sort out the paperwork and ensure the title is clear in the event you need to sell the property or manage it as part of a division of assets. For more information on how we can assist with all your title needs, reach out to the team at Commercial Partners today at (612) 337-2470.