Once our children leave the nest, it's hard to imagine them coming back. However, this is what happened to Claudia's stepdaughter, who lost her job and needed to move back in. She refused unless her stepdaughter agreed to pay rent, creating heavy tension in the family and escalating the situation. Feeling distressed, Claudia wrote to us asking for advice.
Take it as a sign that should you husband die your likely to have no rights to the house as it sounds like you moved in with him.
If you did then the child has more rights to it then you do. If you can deal with this then talk to your spouse on how this could be harmful after so long ofa period ( no job how is she to pay you) then he should start rent .
Hello Claudia! Thank you for sharing your story with us. We have some tips that we hope can be helpful to you.
Organize a family meeting with your husband and stepdaughter to discuss the situation openly and calmly. Consider involving a neutral mediator, such as a family therapist, who can facilitate the conversation and help ensure everyone's feelings and concerns are heard.
Also, emphasize the difference between your mother’s short visits and your stepdaughter’s potential long-term stay.
Consult with a legal advisor to understand your rights regarding the property and establish clear financial agreements.
Draft a written agreement specifying the terms of your stepdaughter’s stay, including rent, household responsibilities, and a timeline for her to find employment and her own place. This will help set clear expectations and protect your interests if conflicts arise.
This issue can be solved by proposing alternative living arrangements for your stepdaughter. For instance, suggest that your husband help her find a nearby apartment or support her in securing temporary housing.
Offer to assist with budgeting or finding resources that can aid her independence. This shows your willingness to support her while maintaining the boundaries you feel are necessary in your home.
Consider individual counseling to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies for dealing with the situation. Reflect on what aspects of the situation are most upsetting to you and why.
Counseling can provide you with tools to manage the stress and emotional impact, and help you approach the situation with a clearer, more balanced perspective. It might also help you find ways to strengthen your relationship with your husband during this challenging time.
Another story involving housing tension is Josie's. She gave her house to her recently married son, thinking he would start a family there. However, things took an unexpected turn, and she ended up feeling betrayed and lied to by her son and his wife. The heartbroken mother shared her story with us and asked for advice.
Your step daughter is correct , although it's your house but it's her dad's house also . She is the daughter of your husband , the husband also has a right to facilitate his daughter .
