The buyer got a loan from the Jamaican housing authority (Something equivalent to HUD but three times the bureaucracy) and since there is no such thing as escrow, (Each side must chose a lawyer to carry his/her affairs) The lawyers and the housing authorities can drag it forever.

My partner/brother-in-law is in construction and did most of the work, but it was a family affair.

If title has already passed to an heir, then its a relatively straight forward affair. 

I'm an Army/Afghanistan combat-wounded veteran who doesn't let the label from the VA define me or my actions.I was a Nurse for a decade.I abused drugs/needles/affairs for 4 years.

Also, read the CA landlord tenant law handbook on the Dept of Consumer Affairs site to make sure you follow all the laws.I just looked on Dennis Block's site, he does not appear to have that form.

Bryan Hancock,I agree with you; however, I must say that arranging your affairs in a position that benefits yourself might be an area that will allow you to save on your tax bill.I firmly agree to not spend just to not have it taxed.

Grant proposals do not have to be last minute, rushed affairs.

Have your lawyer do the tracking and approach the owner, chances are if he has a mental disability his affairs are in the hands of a designated Attorney of Finance that will be making all the decisions not the owner.

VASH is Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing . 

If indeed it was the properties spoken of as 50% then Bill's suggestion will solve that as well as making sure that the surviving person is the beneficiary of the insurance policy along with a power of attorney for the business affairs in the case of death or other incopasitating injury.