Can a parent sign their house over to their children?

[Dicky007]

My elderly friend owns her own home and is worried that if she has to go into a care home then the house would be sold and that all of her savings will pay for the care and she will have nothing to pass onto her 3 children. Is she able to sign over the house to her 3 children and is there a time limit on the transfer.
Any advice appreciated

[Ethel]

This is a complicated area - if a person is deemed to have wilfully disposed of assets (such as the house) to avoid care home fees, the debt can be pursued.

A straight forward explanation and list of contacts here:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/S ocialHousingAndCareHomes/CareHomes/DG_10031523

[droopdrawers]

Many years ago my In Laws did this and it worked very well,but the law has changed and tightened.

However on speaking to a lawyer recently he said it may not be a good idea.

First if the person/persons your passing the property onto may become Bankrupt,there goes your home.

Or, much as you may feel you have a water tight relationship with your family members,nothing is that watertight I can warn you from experience.

I personally am so thankful I was forewarned even though at the time it was definitly something that couldn't possibly happen to my family..we were far too close,or so I thought. !!

DD