Can I sell my house to my soldier?

2022-05-12T13:11:30-04:00

I am selling my house & have received interest from a soldier within my team. I have spoken with legal and they cannot give me a straight answer. Can I sell my house to him or is there any type of regulation that states I cannot due to fraternization or something I am not aware of?

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made May 12 at 2022 2:47 PM

2022-05-12T14:47:53-04:00

It's a sticky situation because of the perception of it. You create the potential for issues when you make business dealings with people you work with.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2022 3:01 PM

2022-05-12T15:01:48-04:00

Of course you can sell your house, car, or motorcycle to your Soldier or any other Soldier.

Response by MSG Gary Eckert made May 12 at 2022 4:17 PM

2022-05-12T16:17:23-04:00

Not sure who you talked to a legal. Make an appointment with the lawyer that approves OG450’s. Even if you aren’t required to file a financial disclosure they can tell you whether it is legal. Be prepared to talk real numbers, appraised value and any other offers you received. My gut tells me that you can’t sell it to a subordinate for more than the highest bid you received from other potential buyers which maybe the gray area legal was referring too.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made May 12 at 2022 6:15 PM

2022-05-12T18:15:43-04:00

Yes but.....

I would recommend putting a buffer between you. BOYH of you use a realtor, so there is not even a POSSIBILITY of undue influence. I would also recommend you instruct your realtor, IN WRITING, to give you information "blind.". Only numbers, no names or other details.

Is that going overboard? Sure is. But I am on the "don't give them even a HINT of something to whisper about" team.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made May 13 at 2022 9:34 PM

2022-05-13T21:34:57-04:00

To keep any perception from confusing things, use a realtor, to broker the sale,

Response by CPO Clifford Henry made May 16 at 2022 6:31 PM

2022-05-16T18:31:11-04:00

This is an interesting thread. I’d say if you’re using separate realtors and all inspections, fair market value, etc are normal, I see zero issue. As long as you don’t deal directly. It’s a normal home buying. The ONLY possible issue I could see, is the perception your troop feels obligated to complete the purchase, but that’s a stretch.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2022 10:34 PM

2022-05-16T22:34:57-04:00

I'm shocked legal couldn't give you an answer. One time sales of major items (such as a car or house) has been listed as an appropriate activity in almost every ethics brief I've had.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2023 8:06 AM

2023-11-30T08:06:38-05:00

if he has the financing - sure