Equitable Title

An Equitable Title in real estate refers to the legal right of an individual or an entity to utilize and operate a particular asset. The title holder is permitted by law to use the asset in such a way that they benefit from it financially, socially, or otherwise. 

However, the equitable title over an asset doesn't correlate to legal ownership. Therefore, the purpose of the asset only extends to operation and not sales, leases, etc. Such title agreements are standard in trusts, real estate, the transport sector, and businesses that lease equipment, plants, and machinery.

• An equitable title meaning states it as the legal right to use or operate an asset and realize any benefits from its usage, such as profits. 
• This title does not confer any legal ownership to the title holder. So, they cannot sell or modify it unless otherwise specified in the agreement.
• The asset or consideration of the contract can be a real estate property such as a house or building or a business asset like equipment or heavy machinery.

Equitable title in real estate is one of the many legal arrangements that enable different parties to collaborate in businesses. A title refers to a document that shows proof of ownership of tangible and intangible assets. It can be of two types – equitable and legal. The individual or entity who holds the equitable ownership can use the asset for personal or business purposes. But they do not own the asset. The equitable owner might derive direct or indirect benefits from the asset. 

Such arrangements help the involved parties financially. If an individual cannot enter into a transaction due to a shortage of funds, they can partner with a third party and enter into an agreement where the latter owns the asset, but the former uses it. Of course, the party who owns it also have some benefits.

Equitable title laws are common in real estate, where assets such as buildings, factories, and houses serve as considerations in contractual agreements. In trusts, too, the beneficiary acts as the agency and uses the asset. Any financial proceeds gained through its utilization will go to the beneficiary. Another example relates to businesses leasing or purchasing plants and machinery without upfront capital investment.

Refer to the following examples to understand the concept.

Example #1

Alice wishes to purchase a house valued at $300,000, but she currently needs more funds for a down payment. She approaches a financial institution, and they agree on the arrangement. In this agreement, the bank becomes the legal owner, holding the property's title, while Alice gains equitable title, allowing her to live in and utilize the house.

As part of the agreement, Alice pays a monthly amount, which covers both rent and an additional sum that contributes to the future purchase of the property. The arrangement stipulates that after a set number of years or when a certain financial threshold is reached, Alice will have the option to buy the house at the agreed-upon price. Until then, the bank retains legal ownership. 

Example #2

In a hypothetical scenario, Sarah discovers her dream home but faces financial constraints. She decides on a rent-to-own agreement with the property owner, David. While David maintains legal ownership, Sarah gains equitable title, allowing her to reside in and improve the property. Through monthly payments, part of which contributes to the property's future purchase, Sarah enjoys the benefits of homeownership. This arrangement showcases the flexibility of equitable title, offering Sarah the opportunity to acquire legal ownership eventually.

This arrangement provides a pathway for individuals to experience homeownership benefits before securing full legal ownership, offering a practical solution for those seeking housing solutions in the face of immediate financial limitations.

In the domain of property rights, titles manifest in two distinct forms – equitable and legal. Exploring the disparities between these two categories provides insights into the unique characteristics that define each type of ownership agreement.

While both equitable and legal titles are legally binding agreements conferring rights to individuals regarding an asset, they share the commonality of serving as recognized instruments in property law. Additionally, both titles establish a framework for individuals to assert specific entitlements tied to the ownership and use of the respective assets.

This article has been a guide to Equitable Title and its definition. Here, we explain it in detail along with its comparison with legal title and examples. You may also find some useful articles here -

• Abstract Of Title
• Title Insurance
• Title Search