Can you hide that you own a home in Virginia? Not completely. Land records are public, so a deed in your name can be searched. You can limit what shows, but every option has trade-offs.
Your options for owning a home privately
- Revocable trust. The most common choice. Most lenders will lend to a trust, so it can work if you finance.
- LLC. It can keep individual names off the deed. Few residential lenders lend to an LLC, so it suits cash and commercial buyers.
- Realty trust. Similar to an LLC, and also mostly used by cash and commercial buyers.
What to check first
- Your lender. Ask before you choose how to hold title. It affects your loan options.
- Taxes. Moving property into an entity can have tax consequences. Ask your CPA.
- Insurance. Some policies exclude certain entities. Confirm coverage in writing.
- Other records. A trust or LLC name may still be traceable, and other public records can show an owner.
When privacy is a safety issue
If you have a safety concern, speak with a Virginia attorney before you buy. The right setup depends on your situation.
Part of our guide to owning a home in Virginia. See also deed versus loan.
Talk to Glenn and Gift before you buy
Questions about how to hold title? Call 703-707-0334 or send us your question.
General information for Northern Virginia buyers, not legal or tax advice. Ask your settlement attorney, title company or CPA about your situation.
