Katlego Sekhu
A listener shared that when her mother passed away, she left her the house and left her older brother the car.
About a year ago, her brother lost his job and asked if he, his wife, and their children could move in with her while they rented out their own house to generate some income. She agreed without hesitation.
However, a year later, she’s beginning to regret the decision. She feels her brother and sister-in-law are taking advantage of her kindness.
Despite living in her home rent-free, she says she is left to handle all the house chores, while her sister-in-law does very little to help.
Now, Anonymous is seriously considering asking them to leave.
“When my mother passed away, she left a will. It clearly stated that I would inherit the house as the lastborn since I still lived there. My brother, who is married, was given her car, and the remaining money was divided among us.
“Last year, my brother was accused of fraud at work and lost his job. He asked if he, his wife, and their two kids could move in with me while they rented out their own house for income. It felt like the right thing to do, so I agreed, no questions asked.
“But now, a year later, I’m starting to regret it. Neither my brother nor his wife helps around the house. I run a nail bar from the yard, and despite that being my work, I’m the one waking up early to clean and make sure everything inside is in order. Both are currently unemployed, though my brother has a few side hustles.
“I politely asked my sister-in-law if she could help with cleaning and cooking. Instead of working with me, she cried to my brother, who ended up telling me off. I feel for him. Losing his job was painful. But I also feel hurt. They’re living here rent-free, yet acting like passengers with no consideration. Would I be wrong to ask them to leave?
“Even though the house is legally mine, I’ve never wanted my brother to feel like it’s no longer his home. But he’s shown me nothing but disrespect despite my willingness to live together peacefully. Yes, it’s my house, and I have the right to make decisions, but I don’t want to come across as arrogant. Still, what other option do I have? What could be my blind spot here?”
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