3,206. Needing to Sell for Under Market Value

Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 9:16

Let’s say that someone owns houses, fields and vineyards. If he were to sell them in the winter, he would have to sell them for less than market value, but if he waits until the summer, he could sell them for what they’re worth. In such a case, we don’t make him sell them in the winter. Rather, we allow him to eat maaser ani until it reaches half the value of his property. In this way, he won’t feel pressure to sell at an inopportune time.

Hilchos Matnos Aniyim 9:17

Let’s say that people are buying property at high prices but he can only find people willing to buy cheaply because they know that he’s under pressure to sell. In such a case, we don’t require him to sell right away. Rather, he may continue eating maaser ani until he can sell his property for what it’s worth. In this way, everyone will know that he’s not feeling pressure to sell.