Ex-spouse can seek quit claim

      DEAR BOB: As part of our marital settlement agreement, I was awarded the house my ex-husband and I bought in 1993. It needs repairs. Can I get a home equity loan? Should I refinance or assume the current FHA 7.5 percent mortgage? -- Doreen Y.
      DEAR DOREEN: If your ex-husband's name is still on the title, you'll need his signature to refinance or get a home equity loan. Better yet, get him to give you a quit claim deed to get him off the title.
      Stick with the mortgage, but get a home-equity loan for repairs if you have sufficient equity.