In South Africa, most co-owners hold property as “tenants in common”, meaning each person owns a specific – not necessarily equal – share. If one owner passes away, their share is distributed ing to their will or intestate succession laws. It does not automatically go to the surviving co-owner(s).
Co-ownership is a legal concept in a business where two or more co-owners share the legal ownership of property. For the concept of co-ownership in different legal codes, see: Concurrent estate, for co-ownership in the common law system.
In joint tenancy, each owner has an equal and undivided interest in the property. Should one owner pass away, their share automatically transfers to the surviving owners, outside of the deceased's estate. This principle is known as the "right of survivorship."
Control Issues. Since every owner has a co-equal share of the asset, any decision must be mutual. You might not be able to sell or mortgage a home if your co-owner does not agree. Creditor Issues. If a co-owner has outstanding debts, their creditors could seize an interest in your home or bank account.
Disadvantages of Joint Property Ownership Co-owners must make decisions collectively, which can lead to conflicts and disagreements regarding property management, maintenance, and use. Individual preferences may be compromised to accommodate the interests of all co-owners.
The flexibility offered by co-ownership of properties can cater to various needs and preferences. Joint property ownership typically requires all owners to have similar needs and wants, limiting customisation.
Co-ownership, particularly models like fractional ownership, tends to provide more tailored experiences that align with individual preferences and lifestyles. Joint property ownership, on the other hand, requires complete alignment among all owners.
Joint ownership is a concept in property law that refers to the ownership of property by two or more people. There are four main types of joint ownership: joint tenancy with rights of survivorship ; tenancy by the entirety ; tenancy in common and community property .
Ownership agreements go by various names depending on the kind of entity you've created for your business. In a partnership, it's called a "partnership agreement." In an LLC, it is called an "operating agreement." And corporations have "bylaws" as well as perhaps a "shareholders' agreement."
The Living Together section of Nolo also discusses various forms of contracts for unmarried people who want to share ownership of property. Also, because your shared home represents a major economic investment, you should hire a lawyer to help you prepare an agreement that meets your needs.