Real Estate Law: The Common Issues

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Whenever someone is looking to purchase a home, there is always an inherent risk. It is common for buyers and sellers of homes to look for the best deal possible; however, it is also possible that issues might arise after a home has already closed. When looking to buy or sell a home, it is critical to be familiar with some of the common legal issues that arise. Understanding these issues ahead of time may help someone avoid devastating legal consequences after the fact. 

False Advertisements May Arise

One of the most common allegations made is related to false advertisements. Sometimes, someone purchases and house and feels that they didn't receive exactly what was advertised. These ads might take place in a booklet, leaflet or on the Internet. There is a certain code of ethics that comes with any real estate advertisement. While everyone wants to get the best deal possible, it is also important to make sure that all information advertised is truthful.

Equal Opportunity with Real Estate

This is, perhaps, the most important law that everyone needs to keep in mind when it comes to real estate. In the past, it used to be common that people wouldn't sell apartments, homes or condos to people of certain backgrounds including ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation. Now, the government has clauses that protect everyone from discrimination when it comes to real estate. It is critical for anyone selling a home to make sure they provide everyone with an equal opportunity to buy that home. At the same time, those looking for a home should never feel like they are being blocked from buying a home on the basis of their gender, ethnicity, orientation or other demographic factors.

Disclose All Accurate Information Accurately

When someone is looking at various homes, they are counting on the buyer to disclose all relevant information related to the condition of that home. Nobody wants to buy a home only to realize that, immediately after purchasing the home, it is in need of substantial repairs. Sometimes, sellers will try to conceal information from the buyer in an effort to pass on the repairs to someone else; however, this is illegal. If the purchaser finds out that information related to potential repairs in the home were concealed, they can go to court and file a lawsuit to recover the costs of the repairs. Some of the most common issues that arise in this area of real estate law include boundary issues, the presence of pests, problems with the structure and roofing issues. It is important for buyers to make sure they ask for a home inspection to uncover these issues ahead of time.