In a heartwarming tale of kindness and generosity, a 87-year-old landlady in the Limburg town of Vaals has left a lasting legacy by bequeathing her properties to the tenants who had called them home. The story, which has captured the attention of the NL Times, reveals an act of benevolence that is as rare as it is inspiring.
A Generous Gesture
The late landlady, whose name has not been disclosed, passed away in February, leaving behind a collection of properties that she had no direct relatives to inherit. Instead, she decided to leave her tenants with a gift that would change their lives forever. One of the beneficiaries, Bram Brekelmans, a 33-year-old teaching assistant and single father of two, expressed his astonishment and gratitude to the Telegraaf.
Brekelmans had lived in the semi-detached home for several years, unaware of the landlady’s intentions. He said, “I met her once. So we didn’t really know each other at all. And then to be given a house as a gift… That there are such nice people in this day and age, when you have to be harsh to get ahead, is heartwarming.”
The value of the property is estimated to be at least 255,000 euros, with a potential market value of up to 290,000 euros. Brekelmans, who is responsible for paying 75,000 euros in inheritance tax, effectively received a 200,000 euro gift. He has converted the inheritance tax into a modest mortgage, ensuring that he can continue to provide for his two children, aged 5 and 7.
A Unique Inheritance
Marije de Rooij-Stevenhaagen, an inheritance mediator at AllesoverErven.nl, highlighted the rarity of such a gift. She noted, “Such a special inheritance does not come around often. I know of one similar case in which a woman in Zeeland left the land she leased to her tenants after her death. She wanted her tenants to have it. She had a much stronger bond with them than with her family.”
De Rooij-Stevenhaagen explained that, in general, individuals have the freedom to decide where their inheritance goes. Only children are entitled to at least half of the normal inheritance and can object if they inherit less than that. In this case, the Vaals woman did not have any children, giving her the freedom to determine her entire inheritance.
A Lesson in Kindness
The story of the elderly landlady in Limburg is a powerful reminder of the positive impact that acts of kindness can have on others. It serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that compassion and generosity can transcend even the most challenging circumstances.
Brekelmans, the recipient of this extraordinary gift, summed it up beautifully: “That there are such nice people in this day and age, when you have to be harsh to get ahead, is heartwarming.”
As news of the landlady’s generous bequest spreads, it is likely to resonate with people across the globe, encouraging us all to consider the legacy we wish to leave behind.
About NL Times
NL Times is a Dutch news outlet that provides comprehensive coverage of local and international news. The story of the elderly landlady in Limburg is just one example of the many compelling stories that the NL Times brings to its readers.
© 2012-2024, NL Times, All rights reserved.
Views: 0