[Decision Concerning GSA Employee's Entitlement to Real Estate Expenses]

A General Services Administration (GSA) employee appealed the denial of his claim for full reimbursement for real estate expenses incurred when he purchased a residence at his new duty station. GSA had reimbursed the employee for only half the allowable expenses because he held title to the house as co-owner with his non-dependent brother. The employee contended that he was entitled to reimbursement for two-thirds of the interest in the property, since he had a dependent spouse. GAO held that GSA properly reimbursed the employee to the extent of his 50 percent interest in the property, since: (1) the deed specifically listed him and his brother as joint tenants; and (2) his marriage did not expand his right of ownership. Accordingly, the claim was denied.