Deeds are some of the most important legal documents people execute. They create a record of the transfer of real property from one owner to the next. People may use deeds when selling real property. They may execute deeds as part of an estate plan. They may even need...
Buying real estate can be exciting, but it can also be risky. Making a six- or seven-figure investment requires thorough due diligence. Buyers hoping to acquire real property need to know the condition of the property so they can feel confident about affording and...
Real estate purchases are often the biggest transactions people ever complete. They commit three decades of their future income to pay off the mortgage on the property. They completely upend their lives to take possession in most cases. Therefore, very thorough...
In the enchanting world of fairy tales, Cinderella’s story is one of dreams coming true, magical transformations, and happy endings. However, when it comes to business partnerships and real estate transactions, the reality is often far from a fairy tale. Just like...
A title dispute can arise from various issues, impacting the legality of a real estate transaction. Recognizing common issues that trigger disputes and knowing how to resolve them can help to better ensure a smooth process for all parties involved. What are common...
Real estate contracts are typically very dense documents. They include information about the property and the obligations of both parties involved in the transaction. The person who wants to buy the property submits a written purchase offer that the seller evaluates...
Changes in technology and market practices overall have increased the levels of fraudulent activity in the practice of real estate. It is impossible to be aware of every scam that exists, but that does not mean you should enter the market ill-informed. Scammers will...
A positive or neutral relationship with immediate neighbors is frequently beneficial for property owners. For example, they might cooperate to perform certain maintenance tasks, like fence repair, or watch a home while someone is away on vacation. However, a...
A title insurance policy helps to protect both someone who is buying a property and their lender from the risk of financial loss. If there turns out to be an issue with the ownership documentation for the property, both the buyer and their lender can count on title...
When someone passes away, the value of their estate has to be distributed to their heirs and beneficiaries. People usually write a will, and they may even take other steps, like setting up a trust. Within the context of an estate plan, they may detail how their assets...