Who needs a co-ownership agreement?

If you are buying a home with a partner, family member, or friend, a co-ownership agreement defines how costs, ownership shares, and sales rights are handled. It prevents conflicts and ensures fair treatment.

Why should I make a will?

A will lets you decide how your assets are distributed after death. Without one, Danish inheritance law applies, and unmarried partners may inherit nothing. A will gives you control and peace of mind.

Can Bomae help with legal documents?

Yes! Bomae's legal advisors help prepare marriage contracts, co-ownership agreements, and wills, making sure your wishes and rights are protected during and after your home purchase.

When should I get legal advice?

Ideally, you should get legal advice before signing any agreements related to your home purchase. Early advice can save you from costly mistakes and ensure your financial and personal interests are safeguarded.

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What is a marriage contract, a co-ownership agreement and a will?

Køberguide

21 June 2024

2 min.

What is a marriage contract, a co-ownership agreement and a will?

Many forget to consider their personal and financial arrangements when buying a home — but it’s a smart move. It lets you enjoy your new home knowing your assets, wishes, and rights are protected in case of death, separation, or divorce.

On this page, you’ll learn the difference between a marriage contract, co-ownership agreement, and will — and when it makes sense to have them.

Legal Advice

What is a marriage contract?

In Denmark, marriage = shared assets. Without a marriage contract (ægtepagt), you split everything 50/50 if you divorce — no matter who brought what.

A marriage contract lets you:

Keep certain assets separate
Decide together what happens if you divorce or one of you passes away
Combine it with a joint will for full protection

💡 Tip: Set it up early or when life changes (like buying a home).

Legal Advice

What is a co-ownership agreement?

Buying with a partner, friend, or family member? A co-ownership agreement (samejekontrakt) defines:
Who pays what
Who can sell and when
How to split profits fairly if you sell
What happens if someone wants out

Example: You pay DKK 110,000, they pay DKK 50,000. Without an agreement, you might split 50/50 — even if contributions were unequal.

Legal Advice

What is a will?

A will (testamente) gives you control over your assets after death.

Without one:

Married? Your spouse and kids inherit by law.
Unmarried? Your partner gets nothing — inheritance goes to your children or parents.

With a will, you decide:
✔ Who inherits
✔ How to protect a surviving partner
✔ What happens to your home

Buying

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FAQ: Marriage Contract, Co-Ownership Agreement & Will

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A marriage contract (ægtepagt) is a legal agreement between spouses that decides how assets are divided if you divorce or one partner passes away. Without it, everything is typically shared 50/50.

Anyone buying a home together — whether as partners, friends, or family. It regulates who owns what, how costs are split, and what happens if one wants to sell or leave.

Without a will, Danish inheritance law decides who inherits your assets. Married couples’ children get part, unmarried partners get nothing. A will lets you decide who inherits and protect a surviving partner.

Ideally before or during a home purchase — especially if you’re investing uneven amounts or buying with someone you’re not married to.

Yes! Our legal advisers help you understand what you need, draft the agreements, and ensure they’re registered properly (e.g., with a notary).

Costs vary depending on complexity, but we offer clear, fixed-price legal advice. Book a free chat with us to get a quote tailored to your situation.

What is a marriage contract, a co-ownership agreement and a will?

What is a marriage contract?

What is a co-ownership agreement?

What is a will?

Why bother?

FAQ: Marriage Contract, Co-Ownership Agreement & Will

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