Title Vesting Explained: Protect Your Home, Family & Future
*THIS IS AN OPINION ARTICLE, THAT SPECULATES ON FUTURE MARKETS. USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY OPINIONS CONTAINED ON THIS ARTICLE ARE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Published August 22, 2025
Written by Stephanie Malki
When you buy a home, choosing how you hold title (vesting) is one of the most important — but often overlooked — decisions. The way you hold title impacts inheritance, taxes, and even refinancing. Many homeowners in California review their vesting when major life events happen, such as marriage, divorce, or inheritance.
What Is Title Vesting?
Title vesting refers to the legal way you own your property. The choice you make affects:
Who inherits the property when an owner passes away.
Tax implications when selling or transferring ownership.
Flexibility in refinancing or selling.
Common Ways to Hold Title in California
1. Sole Ownership
One person owns 100% of the property.
Simple, but no automatic rights of survivorship.
2. Joint Tenancy
Two or more owners with equal shares.
Includes right of survivorship — ownership passes directly to the surviving owner(s).
3. Community Property (Married Couples)
Each spouse owns 50%.
Property transfers through probate unless paired with right of survivorship.
4. Community Property with Right of Survivorship
Available to married couples only.
The surviving spouse automatically inherits the deceased spouse’s share, avoiding probate.
5. Tenancy in Common
Two or more owners with equal or unequal shares.
No survivorship rights — each owner’s share passes to their heirs.
Why It Matters
Each vesting option has very different consequences. For example:
Do you want your share to automatically transfer to your spouse when you pass?
Or do you prefer your portion to go to your heirs instead?
These decisions can affect your family’s future, so it’s important to understand the differences clearly.
Free Vesting Guide
We’ve created a simple flyer that explains vesting in plain language.
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure which option is best for your situation? We can connect you with the right expert.
📲 Text “VEST” to (626) 889-5709 or contact us here to get started.
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