What Happens to Your Home If You Are Deported? Here Are Your Options
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
For many immigrant families, buying a home represents a part of the American dream. However, in light of the fear of possible deportation, some homeowners wonder what would happen to that investment if they have to leave the country. The answer depends on each situation, but real estate agents assure that a person outside the United States does not automatically lose the right to own a home. 'Several things can happen, but what we don’t want is for you to lose what you invested,' explained Alex Núñez, a real estate agent. One of the main aspects families must consider is how they will continue to pay the mortgage if the owner has to leave the country. 'This brings up the question of if they are not paying, who will make the payments to prevent the property from being lost?' noted Valentín Díaz, another real estate agent. If payments stop being made, the property could be at risk. Therefore, among the options homeowners might consider are keeping the home, renting it out, or selling it, depending on their circumstances. If the owner is outside the United States, carrying out some of these processes may require authorization for someone else to act on their behalf. 'We need to obtain a letter from them authorizing us to legally represent them,' Díaz explained. This authorization could allow, for example, a representative to manage the sale of the property and ensure the corresponding funds are transferred to the owner. Experts and organizations working with immigrant families recommend not waiting until facing an emergency to organize these documents. One tool that could facilitate these processes is a power of attorney, through which a person can designate a trusted individual to handle specific matters on their behalf. This preparation can include issues related to bank accounts, properties, vehicles, and other financial responsibilities. 'Not having that letter doesn’t mean they will lose their properties. However, it is a longer and more difficult process,' explained Iván Cornejo, president of a volunteer advisory group that protects and promotes the rights of immigrants in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Planning can also extend beyond properties. Organizations working with immigrant families recommend thinking ahead about who could take care of the children in case the parents are detained or deported. 'We hope we never have to use it. However, it’s better to be well-prepared to know what to do,' said Cornejo. Experts emphasize that each immigration and financial situation is different. Therefore, they recommend seeking professional guidance before an emergency to determine what documents and measures may be appropriate in each case.
AI summary · Source: Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) →
