Many people would like to know if anyone passed away peacefully or violently in the house they are looking to buy. The discovery that someone did die in a house may cause a buyer to look elsewhere to avoid being associated with the death. Do sellers need to tell...
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Residential Real Estate
What real estate disclosures are required in New York?
In New York, real estate sales are governed by specific laws that require sellers to provide potential buyers with detailed disclosures about any particular property. These requirements are designed to ensure transparency, allowing buyers to understand a property's...
What is “functional obsolescence” in real estate?
Whether you’re in the market for residential or commercial property, you likely want to purchase one that will increase in value over the years. That’s why you’ll want to beware of any property-related concerns associated with functional obsolescence. Most people...
What disclosures should homebuyers watch for?
Transparency is vital to a smooth transaction and legal compliance when selling a home. Sellers are typically required to disclose specific information about the property to potential buyers. Disclosures ensure that buyers are fully aware of the property's condition...
What’s the difference between a short sale and a foreclosure?
Since the homebuying market is so competitive, finding a great deal may require a little extra effort. However, don’t fret, because there is almost always something out there for every potential homebuyer. If you’re looking for a new home that’s below market value,...
Can you make an offer with preapproval?
If you’re looking to buy a home, the first step may be to contact a mortgage lender. You will provide them with documentation, such as proof of your earnings, and they will then give you a preapproval letter. This will tell you roughly how much money the mortgage...
Do you really need legal representation when buying a home?
A home purchase is one of the riskiest financial transactions you may make during your lifetime. Since a lot could go wrong in a residential real estate transaction, you may wonder if you should consider legal guidance, but how do you know it will help? Each state has...
New York home sellers must now disclose flood history and risks
This year has brought unprecedented flooding to New York City and other parts of the state. This helped spur efforts by state lawmakers to craft legislation that would increase home sellers’ responsibilities to disclose known flood risks to potential buyers. In...
Do you need to hire a home inspector?
It’s important that first-time home buyers find a home that they don’t later regret. Many first-time home buyers will try to rush into purchase when they finally find a home that piques their interest. A home buyer may fear that if they don’t buy the home now then...
How do you know if you could be buying a “stigmatized property?”
For many home buyers, it doesn’t matter what may have happened in or on the property in the past -- as long as it’s in good condition now. Others don’t want to live in what’s considered a “stigmatized property” – at least in some types. Homes can be considered...