Stuck with a property you can't use, can't rent, can't exchange -- heck, when you've tried to sell it, it seems like you can't even give it away?

Well you can -- give it away, that is -- and actually that might be your best choice, not your last resort.

Many disenchanted property owners have rid themselves of mounting maintenance fees and taxes by simply walking away -- ceasing to make the payments and prompting foreclosure. But if you're adamant about getting rid of your unit, there's a better way to give it away: Donate it to charity.

If you're interested in donating your property to a charity here are some things you may want to know:

1)      Have they handled similar donations in the past? How will the organization use your property? (And do you approve of its plans?) View the other links here to see some of the work your donation will support.

2)     Our organization will not be selling the property in the next 2 years. We will most likely do necessary repairs and rent it at a reduced cost to a family in need. The fact that we will not immediately sell the property allows you a greater tax advantage. (Please consult your tax professional)

3)     If eventually sold, proceeds fund the Ministry budget, not some “non-profit” company with a million$ budget

4)     We will pay any maintenance fees/taxes once we take possession of the property.

5)     We will provide proof to show that you no longer own the property and are no longer responsible for it.

6)     We take properties that need repairs

Unfortunately, many factors that might make a property difficult to sell will also discourage a charity from taking it. If the property is older, if it's fallen into disrepair, if the area has sustained a natural disaster or if it's in a less-popular destination, a charity might not want it. Talk to us. We may still be interested.

You also want to talk with your own professional, lawyer or accountant, so that you have someone in your corner to advise you on how the donation will impact your taxes and financial picture. Especially with noncash donations.

We would always advise that you need to talk to somebody who knows the legal and tax implications.

When it comes to taking tangible property, like properties, some organizations are better set up to deal with donations than others. We are set up to take donations of properties.

For $150 to $200, you can usually get an appraisal of the property and know its current fair market value as you consider the donation.

It's effective, but we didn't say it's simple. Like any property transfer, the procedure is complicated, so it pays to move carefully, double check all the details and get professional help.

This is a win-win for property owners and for the charity. A lot of times it's easier for people to donate it to us and take the tax write-off than to try and sell it themselves.

Please consider Special Visit Ministry and our work when thinking of donating your property.

God's blessings.