To change the name on a home purchased with a loan, follow these steps: Update the mortgage lender first by submitting a notarized request and a government-issued ID. Then, file a deed change with the county recorder’s office, including a revised deed and any required documentation (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree). If the loan is shared, both borrowers must agree and complete additional paperwork. Contact the title company or real estate attorney to ensure compliance with state laws. Finally, update property tax records and insurance policies.

Changing the name on a property with a mortgage is legally mandatory to avoid discrepancies in ownership and loan liability. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 12% of homeowners update property deeds post-purchase, with marriage being the most common reason. Lenders like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require updated borrower names to ensure accurate loan servicing and compliance with federal regulations. Failure to update records can lead to tax penalties (averaging $200–$500 annually in missed property tax adjustments) or legal disputes, as noted in a 2022 study by the American Land Title Association (ALTA). State-specific requirements vary: California, for example, mandates a notarized Affidavit of Death of Spouse for widows, while Texas requires a certified copy of a marriage license. Processing times typically range from 2–4 weeks, depending on county workload. Costs include notary fees ($15–$50), deed preparation ($100–$300), and recording fees ($50–$300), according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). This process safeguards legal and financial interests while ensuring smooth future transactions.