Use Form 709 to report: Transfers subject to the federal gift and certain generation-skipping transfer (GST) taxes.
A “gift of equity” refers to a gift provided by the seller of a property to the buyer. The gift represents a portion of the seller's equity in the property, and is transferred to the buyer as a credit in the transaction.
Non-Family Members – In some cases, individuals with a close personal relationship may also be able to gift equity. This can include close friends or individuals with a significant personal connection.
In all situations, the gift/inheritance is deemed to be a sale for fair market value. If the property has always met the criteria for primary residence, there's zero tax.
Yes, if you have a mortgage on the property your lender will need to consent to any other parties becoming legal owners. They will require the incoming party to become a party to the mortgage as well.