A woman went viral after posting about her long-distance boyfriend who will not buy her an engagement ring. The reason? He wants to buy a house with her instead, calling it “a bigger commitment,” which many viewers see as a red flag.
In a video with more than 580,000 views, TikTok user @notkwag explained how she recently moved states to build a life with her partner. He is not ready to commit to marriage but is willing to purchase joint property.
To buy a house or to get married?
For many, buying a home with a significant other is a major milestone, usually taken after marriage. Most legal experts advise against co-owning property without being married. That is because cohabiting couples do not have the same automatic property rights that come with marriage. If the relationship ends, courts typically divide jointly owned property equally, regardless of who paid more.
One way to protect yourself is by creating a cohabitation agreement before signing any paperwork. These agreements outline how each person wants to handle joint property, mortgage payments, and other financial matters, including shared accounts.
It is also important to understand how your state treats property owned by unmarried couples. Property laws vary, and protections differ from state to state.
Should she be concerned?
The McCormick Law Firm in Illinois explains that property shared by unmarried couples is not protected by divorce or marital property laws. “There is no automatic right to property division based solely on the relationship,” the firm states. Illinois also does not recognize common-law marriage.
In other states, common-law marriages may be recognized, which can affect how property is divided.
As one TikTok commenter put it, “He wants half the equity when you sell it. No ma’am.”
Marriage is generally seen as a stronger legal and financial commitment, which is why many believe it should come before buying property together.
One commenter warned, “NEVER BUY PROPERTY WITHOUT THE COMMITMENT OF MARRIAGE. God forbid things go sour, [that] man will fight tooth and nail for that property if he’s on the paperwork [or] loan. If the man can commit to helping buy property, he can commit to marriage.”
Others questioned the decision to move at all. “You’re moving to a new state for a man who won’t propose?” one person asked.
@notkwag do I say no and buy it myself
♬ original sound – not kwag
The Mary Sue has reached out to @notkwag via TikTok direct message for comment.
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