Stop Paying Property Taxes for Land That’s Not in Your Name!

 Are You Paying Property Taxes for Land That’s Not in Your Name? Stop and Read This!
 A lot of people think that paying property taxes on a deceased family member’s land will make them the owner. 
 Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Paying taxes doesn’t mean you own the property—it only keeps it from going to
a tax sale. The name on the deed determines who owns the land, and if that name isn’t yours, the property legally isn’t
 yours either.

Why Paying Taxes Isn’t Enough
Ownership of land doesn’t automatically pass to you when a family member dies, even if you’re paying the taxes. For you to legally own it, the property usually requires that you go through a process called probate, but not always. Probate is where the court transfers ownership, but this can also be done through an Order requested from an Attorney that can help. If there’s no will or legal documents naming you as the heir, the land stays in the deceased person’s name—no matter how many tax payments you make.

What Happens If You Keep Paying?
The county will gladly take your money, but paying taxes does not give you any rights to the property. Worse, someone else—like a distant relative or the state—could legally claim it later, and you won’t get reimbursed for the taxes you’ve already paid. Plus, you can’t legally sell, build on, or use the land unless your name is on the deed.

What You Need To Do Instead:
If you think the property should belong to you, here’s what to do instead of just paying taxes then:

1. Talk to a Lawyer – A probate or Real Estate Attorney can help you get the process started. Not all situations mean that you must go through Probate, but it will need to go through a court order one way or another. It doesn't hurt to consult with an Attorney, or even a few. But do so now, instead of waiting years later.
2. If Probate is required due to the decedent’s debts and assets – Then this is is the legal process that the Attorney will use to help transfer the property to the rightful heir once creditors and mortgage companies are made aware of the owner on record's passing.
3. Get the Deed in Your Name – Once you’re on the deed, the property is legally yours and now you can do as you please with the land.

The bottom line: Paying property taxes alone won’t make you the owner of the land. To protect your time and money, focus on getting legal ownership first. If you’re unsure how to start, reach out to someone who can guide you through the process, and if your property is in Nevada, then contact me, so I can help. I have connections to make it work.

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