Dear Abby: My husband and his sister make decisions without me
Cleveland
Last updated: May 14, 2026
A woman is seeking advice regarding a co-ownership arrangement of a home with her husband and his sister. While the arrangement generally functions well regarding shared expenses and chores, the wife feels her husband's sister’s parenting style and lack of boundaries are impacting their shared living situation and her husband's behavior.
- The original poster (OP) and her husband purchased a home with his sister, sharing bills and chores. The OP feels this arrangement is generally working, enabling them to afford a nicer home.
- The primary issue arises from the sister's parenting style, which the OP finds too permissive and lacking boundaries. This also affects the OP's husband, who she believes is too lenient with his sister and their children.
- The OP is concerned about the long-term implications of these dynamics on her marriage and their shared home. She feels her husband is siding with his sister and is seeking guidance on how to address these growing concerns and establish clearer boundaries within their co-owned household.
