Cat you shouldn't try to do this without the advice of an attorney. And you have to refi in your name only. A quitclaim deed will be effective yes, but good luck getting him to sign it. I hoped he'd take the 17K but apparently he's vying for jackass of the week with some other WASs around here.
You have got to untangle yourself from this man because it sounds like he's inclined to make you pay emotionally and mentally regarding the house for as long as he can. When things take a turn like that, you need a lawyer.
That said, he could still change his mind in the next 5 minutes...
If he wants this thing to go to court are you willing to air all his dirty laundry and file for divorce on the grounds of adultery and/or desertion? You could and you have the evidence to back it up. I'd put it to him like that if I were you.
Just let it hit the fan and see where it lands.
I think he'll play ball if you put it to him like that.
But I've been wrong before.
It's just not right considering the circumstances that led you to this stage that he have you by the balls.
I'd like to see it the other way around myself.
And since you've basically bent over backwards being kind and respectful and gotten a bunch of BS in return, I'd say it's time for a new kind of stand.
