While buying a home with a loved one might seem like a good idea at one point, there may come a time when you go your separate ways. If that happens, you’ll need to get out of your joint mortgage — the one you applied for and shared with the other party.
This might be necessary in a divorce or separation, or if you and another loved one inherit a home and mortgage together.
Either way, there are options. A real estate attorney can give you the most personalized advice for moving forward, but generally speaking, here’s how to get out of a joint mortgage.
Can You Remove Someone Else from a Mortgage Without Their Permission?
Yes, you may be able to remove someone else from a mortgage without their involvement, but it depends on your loan and lender. The process may require refinancing the loan into only your name, or in some cases, you may be able to do a loan assumption, which transfers the loan into your name only. Modifying your loan terms may also be an option. Always consult a real estate attorney if you’re looking to remove someone from your mortgage with or without their permission.
Can I Remove My Name from a Mortgage?
The answer depends on how you’re attached to the mortgage. Did you actually apply for the loan with the other person, intending to own the home together? If so, that makes you a co-borrower. Or, did you act as a co-signer, simply helping a loved one qualify for a loan of their own?
Here’s how to get your name off a mortgage, depending on which applies to you:
If You Are a Co-Borrower
If you’re a co-borrower, the other party needs to refinance the mortgage into their name only. This requires a new application and credit check, and they need to prove to the lender that they can afford the monthly payments on their own. It would also replace the loan with a new one — and a new interest rate based on current market conditions. This may not be attractive to borrowers who currently have a very low rate.
Selling the home is another option that gives both parties a fresh start. You can also ask your lender about other alternatives, such as a loan modification or a loan assumption (more on both below).
If You Are a Co-Signer
If you’re the co-signer on a loan, it may be easier to remove your name. Refinancing is still an option for the other party, or you can ask the lender for a co-signer release. Some lenders will allow this if the primary borrower has sufficiently improved their credit score or finances since the original application, or if they’ve made a certain number of on-time payments.
How to Remove Someone from a Mortgage Without Refinancing
Refinancing is the most common way to remove someone from a mortgage, but there are other strategies to consider as well.
Loan Modification
A loan modification can be used to remove a co-borrower. It allows you to change the basic terms of the mortgage — the rate, loan length, or who’s listed on it. Most lenders offer modifications during financial hardship, and a divorce or separation may also qualify.
Loan Assumption
In a loan assumption, one person takes over the full mortgage debt. This option is only available on certain government-backed loan programs — VA, USDA, and FHA loans — and is subject to lender approval.
Each program has its own credit requirements for the assuming borrower. Keep in mind that lenders may set their own minimums above the program guidelines. For VA and USDA assumptions, Refi.com requires a minimum credit score of 620. For FHA assumptions, Refi.com requires a minimum score of 620.
Quitclaim Deed
In addition to one of the above strategies, you’ll likely need to file a quitclaim deed. While loan modifications and assumptions can remove someone from a mortgage agreement, a quitclaim deed removes them from the home’s title. Your attorney can help you file this and ensure you have full legal ownership of the property.
Sell the Property
It may not be ideal, but selling the property is a surefire way to cut ties with a joint mortgage. You can pay off the loan from the sale proceeds and use your share of the remaining funds for a fresh start.
How to Refinance to Remove Someone from a Mortgage
If you opt to refinance to remove a co-borrower or co-signer, the process is straightforward and similar to applying for your original loan.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Choose a lender (it doesn’t have to be your current one) and submit a refinance application.
- Provide financial documentation, such as W-2s, tax returns, and pay stubs.
- Await the lender’s property appraisal, which confirms your home’s value and determines how much you can borrow.
- Pay your closing costs and sign the final paperwork.
Once complete, your new loan pays off the old one and officially replaces it. You then make payments on your new mortgage going forward.
Cost of Removing Someone from a Mortgage
The cost of removing someone — or yourself — from a mortgage depends on which route you take. Here’s how the options compare:
| Method | Cost |
| Refinancing | 2–6% of the loan amount |
| Loan assumption | Varies by loan program; typically 0.5% to 6% of the loan amount |
| Loan modification | No cost |
| Quitclaim deed | Typically $100–$400 |
Talk to a real estate attorney if you’re unsure how to proceed. They can help you make the best decision for your specific situation.
If refinancing is the right path for you, Refi.com makes it simple. Start your refinance application today and get the fresh start you’re looking for.
