What is the name of your state? New York City. I am currently married but soon to be divorced. We purchased a house together in the year 2001 and now I would like to sell the house and split the profit, but she wants to buy me out. I don't mind that but I know that she can not afford to make the mortgage payments on her own which are $1,635.00 not including gas, electric,water,phone bill, etc.. After taxes she takes home $1,100 every two weeks and we have a 4 yr old daughter. I am willing to work with her and let her pay me the "buy out money" within a certain amount of time. How can I protect myself just in case she decides not to give me the buy out money or do I keep my name on the house until she pays me or will I be forced to pay mortgage while I am not living there?