How Can I Find Out If There Are Any Title Disputes on a Property Before I Buy It?
The last thing anyone wants is to purchase property and then discover there is a problem with or “cloud” on the title. A title dispute of any kind calls into question the alleged owner’s ability to actually convey the property and can lead to legal problems and lost money. Fortunately, performing...
Legal Options for Condo Fee Arrearage
Condo associations and trustees rely on unit owners to pay their fees so they can continue managing their communities and providing services. While some residents are occasionally late or miss their payments, there are often handfuls of owners who are consistently delinquent with their fees. What legal options do associations have for...
How To Identify and Avoid Common Real Estate Scams
Like any industry, real estate has its share of scammers and con artists. Scams have become more sophisticated over time as thieves work to take advantage of changing technology and individuals who are sometimes desperate to make a deal. Learning to recognize and avoid these traps is essential to saving you time,...
Condo Collections and Payments: A Guide for Residents and Boards
One of the most contentious aspects of the relationship between condo associations and residents is the payment of fees. Delinquent fees, non-payment, and other issues related to condo dues have been the source of many disputes and even court cases. However, fees do not have to cause such drastic problems between...
What Are the Liability Risks Associated with Non-Disclosure of Real Estate Problems?
Purchasing a home or other real estate can be exciting, but the process is fraught with potential pitfalls. The buyer and the seller are necessarily in adversarial roles. This means that while the buyer wants as much disclosure of problems as possible, the seller is likely to downplay or conceal issues....
How Do I Find a Good Real Estate Lawyer?
Whether you are a buyer or a seller, having a good real estate lawyer is essential. Sellers need to ensure they are abiding by disclosure and other requirements while buyers need their interests protected at all stages, from the initial inspection to the closing. There are many things that could...
What Must Sellers Disclose About a Property’s Condition?
Purchasing real property is not without risks, which is why the phrase “caveat emptor” (Latin for "Let the buyer beware") is still in popular usage today. Despite this, the law does impose a few minimum disclosure requirements on sellers to ensure the transaction is not unusually unfair. Whether you are the seller...
Common Sources of Conflict in Cooperative and Condominium Associations
Cooperative (co-op) and condominium associations are established to improve community life for all residents. But like any governing authority, there can be disagreements between those in charge and those who are subject to the rules and decisions. Conflicts may erupt over co-op and condo association policies, enforcement, and spending. Sometimes these disputes...
The Importance of Disclosures in Real Estate Transactions
There are numerous steps involved in ensuring that a home purchase goes smoothly and legally. One of the most important steps is the disclosure phase. Whether you’re buying or selling property, it’s important to understand this obligation. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Disclosures?Tenant Rights When Facing Renovations in Massachusetts
Facing renovations as a tenant in Massachusetts can be a daunting experience, especially if you're unsure of your rights and protections. Whether it's minor repairs or extensive upgrades, knowing what to expect and how to advocate for yourself is crucial. This guide will walk you through essential tenant rights during renovations, ensuring...