My mother has a house in italy. she wants to put it in my name. is a general power of attorney sufficient?

Question

My mother has a house in italy. she wants to put it in my name. is a general power of attorney sufficient?

Answer 1

Because it is out of country, you would have to know the laws of that country....so may need some greater help.

Answer 2

A power of attorney wouldn't give you ownership of anything.

If your mother wants the house to be in your name, the best way would seem to be for her to actually sell it to you for some minimal price. She should check first with an Italian real estate attorney to make sure such a plan is legal and valid in that country.

Answer 3

To the best of my knowledge, a power of attorney only gives you power to act on her behalf.  It does not give you ownership of anything.

Because this house is in Italy, you'd need to check with the town it is in there for their requirements.  I wouldn't think it is difficult to change ownership but I honestly have no idea.

Answer 4

What is needed in Italy is just a "notaio" (public notary) and the handover have to be registered at the local (where the house is) Agenzia delle Entrate (tax agency) office.

According to Italian law, your mother can do a "donazione" to you. Today is easier than few years ago, there are no more so much taxes to pay.

Anyway, an attorney is not needed, though you can be assisted by one if you want.