Question 1

Should unmarried couples buy a house together?

Accepted Answer

It can be a smart financial move — combining incomes increases buying power significantly. The key is having a written cohabitation or property agreement before closing that addresses what happens if you break up, one person wants to sell, or one person dies. Buying together without this protection is the main risk.

Question 2

Whose name should be on the mortgage when unmarried?

Accepted Answer

Both names if both incomes are needed to qualify. One name if one partner has significantly better credit or income. Having both names on the mortgage means both are equally responsible for payments — missing payments affects both credit scores.

Question 3

What credit score do you need to buy a house with a partner?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders use the lower middle score of the two applicants. If Partner 1 has a 780 score and Partner 2 has a 650 score, the 650 typically determines your rate. If one partner has a significantly lower score, it may make sense to apply with just the higher-score partner — if their income alone qualifies.

Question 4

Can my partner be on the deed but not the mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is called a non-borrowing owner. One partner qualifies for and is responsible for the mortgage, while both are listed on the deed as owners. This can work if one partner has income but poor credit, though it creates an imbalance in financial responsibility.

Question 5

What happens to the house if we break up?

Accepted Answer

Without a written agreement, options are: one partner buys out the other at current market value, you sell the home and split proceeds per ownership percentage, or one partner continues living there and paying the mortgage (risky without refinancing). A cohabitation agreement written before purchase can specify exactly how this plays out.

Question 6

Is buying a home together a good idea if we're not married?

Accepted Answer

Many couples do it successfully. The financial benefits — building equity together, sharing costs, increasing buying power — are real. The key differences from married buyers: no automatic legal protections if you split, no community property rights, and mortgage is separate from any relationship legal status. Go in with a written agreement and you're well protected.

Buying a home with
your partner — unmarried?

How you hold title matters

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a home withyour partner — unmarried?

How you hold title matters

Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a home with
your partner — unmarried?