What will happen to my dad's house when he goes into a care home?

DEAR DEIDRE: MY dad has put his house and mortgage in my name, but I’m worried what will happen when he goes into a care home.

He only had three years of mortgage left to pay.

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But when he suffered a stroke at the beginning of the year, we thought it was wise he put the house and mortgage in my name.

He also registered me as his power of attorney and updated his will. It meant he only had to worry about his health going forward.

But he’s finding it hard to look after himself – he’s lived alone since my mum died.

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I think he might do better in a care home, but I’m worried what will happen to the house.

I’m 32 and my dad’s 58.

DEIDRE SAYS: You can “gift” property or money to children, but there has to be a seven-year gap before death.

If less time had passed, it would fall back to your dad’s estate.

So potentially your dad’s care home fees would need to be paid for out of his estate, which would include the property.

You can get some good legal advice free via citizensadvice.org.uk.