Prenups and Property: How Couples Are Future-Proofing Real Estate Investments

Buying a first home together? Planning to invest in an Airbnb? Real estate plays a big role in the modern couple’s financial roadmap, and it’s no longer something prenups simply mention in passing. Today, property is often front and center in prenuptial agreements.

Neptune Insight: In 2024, 41% of prenups created through Neptune included clauses related to real estate ownership or shared property investments.

Neptune makes it easier for couples to align on real estate decisions early, whether it's deciding what counts as separate vs shared property or how to handle mismatched down payments. We connect you with vetted attorneys and helpful tools so your custom prenup reflects how you really plan to build a life together.

The Role of Property in Modern Prenups

Real estate is more than just an asset. For many, it’s where life happens—and that makes clarity essential. A well-drafted prenup can outline:

• Who owns what, especially if one partner already owns a home
• How much each of you is contributing to a down payment or renovation
• Whether the non-owner gains equity through shared mortgage payments or “sweat equity”
• What happens to the property if the relationship ends

Common Real Estate Scenarios Covered in a Prenup

Here are some real estate situations where a prenup can bring clarity and prevent future friction.

Pre-owned Property

When one partner already owns a home, a prenup can protect that ownership while still acknowledging the other’s contributions, whether financial or otherwise.

Joint Investments

Thinking about buying a duplex, second home, or Airbnb? Treat the prenup like a business plan. Spell out how costs, profits, and responsibilities will be shared.

Unequal Contributions

If you’re not splitting the down payment 50:50, your prenup can reflect that. You can agree on reimbursement plans or percentage-based equity shares.

Questions to Answer in Your Property Clause

• How will we define separate vs marital property?
• How do we want to split ongoing costs like taxes and repairs?
• What’s our plan if one partner wants out of the property later?

Ready to Build Together? Start With Neptune

A prenup isn’t just about protecting assets; it’s about planning your future with intention. At Neptune, we help you create agreements that are tailored, legally sound, and rooted in clarity.

Start a conversation with Neptune today to start building your future.