My husband and I moved from Oregon to Illinois to be live in caregivers for mom. I left a job with benefits and could not work, due to mom's dementia and failing body. My sister would visit a couple times a year from Utah.
Part of the verbal agreement with mom was if we moved in, she would continue to pay the bills. Her home is paid for. My sister voiced that she felt we were living off of mom, saying we'd have to pay rent somewhere. I could not get her to understand that I could not work, taking care of mom. I said I was saving both of us the cost of hiring a 24/7 caregiver, or nursing home. This has changed our relationship.
I was mom's caregiver a week short of 2 years and 8 months. Upon mom's death, her will specified we equally got the house and other things would be equally divided. My sister is pushing us to move out, in order to sell the home. My husband and I want time to figure where to go, and the house still needs cleared out. She's mom's 1st POA over finances and I am second. My sister is also a drunk. What rights do I have?
Gail
It takes time to settle an estate. Do you and your husband want to stay long term in the house, or do you need time to plan your next move? When you figure that out, you can tell your sister you either will buy out her share of the house or plan to move by a set date and will help to prep the house for sale in exchange for below market rent.
Our neighbour died in March, he was living in a rental. His estate has continued to pay the rent and will at least through August as the estate is settled.
it is unfortunate that your mother’s Will did not state that you could live there for a specific time to allow you time to make plans.
Be prepared for a fight. Steel your nerves now and assume your sister won't play fair. Any sentimental feelings from the past need to be tossed in the trash. Go for the jugular and fight hard. Unless you can do this, you've already lost.
Fortunately I didn't have this situation with my brother after my folks died, but I did have it when I got divorced. Although the events are different, the emotions are not. The first attorney I contacted was a bloodsucker and I regret I didn't retain her. She played hardball and despite the state of my marriage I truly felt that the 17 years we'd been together counted for something and that he'd play fair. Live and learn.
Good luck!