BellaOnline Forums Relationships Bereavement How to do it right?

Hi everyone. I've just joined, so I'm not sure if this is the best place to place my question, but here goes:

My sister and I inherited some of our family estate when our uncle died of cancer in 2003. He was quite the playboy when he was around and he had two vacation homes in Maine and Barbados. My sister and I each were deeded a share in both titles. But it�s been a juggling act and we would rather be rid of them. But we both wonder if his intention was to keep them; he was so proud of those places. I know he�s passed, but I want to do right by his memory.

I am sorry for your lose!

Ask your self why he gave you the land? was it because he thought you and your sister would love to share itand your families would use it? or did he leave it to you so you could make some profit off of it and use the money? if you have kids would they want it some day?

I think if you and your sister do not want to use them and no one else in the family wants them that it would be ok to sell them. i would try to sell them to someone in the family first then go for some one outside.

I own a vacation home and I used to own another one. I doubt that I would care at all what happens to them if I died. The I had in the Rockies for the winter, but I wasn�t getting out there enough. I came across an ad by Timeshare Relief that takes you off the deed. I had them get me out of it and the things� been history ever since. Unless you love that vacation property and get out there enough, then get off the deed and move on.

If it had been really important to your uncle that you keep the homes - I think he would have mentioned it to you or someone else in the family during his lifetime or he would have included something in his Will.
They may have been special places to him but I imagine he left them to you and your sister to help provide a secure future and perhaps, in the hope you also, might enjoy them.
If for some reason they don't suit your lifestyle or you don't use them - I think you should sell them.
I have property that I love and enjoy but would not expect my beneficiaries to keep something that didn't suit them.
The exception may be family estates and significant homes and the Will usually ensures they stay in the family by various means.

welcome aboard, jonie.bell! this is ABSOLUTELY the right place to discuss this. we have terrific readers, who are very supportive and generous with their time.

i agree with the others. if you can't use the places, sell them. buy a place where you & sis can vacation easily and often. call it "Uncle ___'s Place". maybe frame a favorite photo of him to hang in a place of honor. and when you're there - PARTY! living well is the best way to honor him.