Why is it that the bank accepted a particular property as a guarantee for a "buy to let" property, the guaranteed property is now in negative equity and I can no longer afford to pay the mortgage on either of the properties.
The lender says that they can now take the family home (I own) to make up the balance.
Is it not the lenders fault that they made a bad decision in accepting the property in the first place?
I specifically did not use the family home as a guarantee to avoid this situation.
I'm probably just in a pedantic mood, but I find it difficult to understand what you posted.
I find with clients that you get the best results if you start out clear.
Here are a few queries to clarify what you posted.
#1 - Are you suggesting that there is a third property here?
- Your family home.
- The buy to let property.
- The property you used to guarantee it.
#2 - Is the same bank the lender on all the properties?
If not how may different banks / lenders are there and on which properties (no business names please).
#3 - Are you suggesting that the bank has now stated as fact that it will "take the family home"?
Its very difficult to comment competently until you offer this information. Its possible that if the bank accepted a guaranteed property as part of the mortgage contract on the buy to let property that they could be limited to taking this, but it depends on the contract wording and precedent in court.
If there is a second mortgage provider they could have first call on the property as Brendan has suggested, which makes one wonder how it was ever offered and accepted in the first place and perhaps this is where your query arises, but here I am - speculating!
Certainly the bank can seek redress through the courts, but taking the family home may not be the appropriate remedy in this case - and that's for a judge to decide.
What seems clear is that you need to tale competent legal advice on the matter urgently.
ONQ.
All advice on AAM is remote from the situation and cannot be relied upon as a defence or support - in and of itself - should legal action be taken.
Competent legal professionals should be asked to advise in Real Life with rights to inspect and issue reports on the matters at hand.