Frequenty Asked Questions - New York Real Estate Law

Real Estate Attorneys Representing Residents and Property Owners in Long Island & Queens, NY

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Residential Real Estate Legal Questions

DO YOU NEED AN ATTORNEY TO BUY A HOUSE IN NEW YORK?

Yes, in New York, it's customary and highly recommended to have a real estate attorney for buying a house to oversee the contract, closing process, and ensure legal compliance.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLOSE ON A HOUSE IN NEW YORK?

Closing on a house in New York typically takes 60 to 90 days after the contract is signed, depending on factors like mortgage approval, inspection results, and legal considerations.

HOW CAN I AVOID ISSUES WITH NEIGHBORING PROPERTIES WHEN BUYING A HOME?

Conduct a survey, check property boundaries, and review any easements or restrictions with your attorney.

WHAT ARE THINGS NOT TO DO AFTER CLOSING ON A HOUSE?

After closing on a house, avoid making large purchases or changes to your credit profile, neglecting to pay your mortgage on time, and delaying essential property maintenance or insurance updates. It's also important to keep all important documents pertaining to the purchase of your residential property.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DISCOVER UNDISCLOSED PROBLEMS AFTER CLOSING?

You may have legal recourse for nondisclosure if the seller failed to disclose known issues. If you are in need of guidance consult with our Long Island real estate attorneys.

Residential Real Estate

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Commercial Real Estate Legal Questions

WHAT DO COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS DO?

Commercial real estate attorneys in Long Island and all throughout New York handle legal aspects of buying, selling, and leasing commercial properties, including negotiating contracts, conducting due diligence, and ensuring compliance with zoning and land use laws.

WHAT ARE SPECIFIC NEW YORK LAWS THAT PERTAIN TO COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE?

In New York, commercial real estate laws can vary from other states. This includes regulations on lease agreements, building codes, environmental compliance, and the transfer of property rights, often varying by county and city.

SHOULD I HIRE A NEW YORK REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY BEFORE PURCHASING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY?

Yes, hiring a real estate lawyer before buying commercial property is advisable to navigate complex legal requirements, conduct due diligence, and ensure your interests are protected throughout the transaction.

Commercial Real Estate

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General Real Estate Legal Questions

WHAT ARE REAL ESTATE PARTITION ACTIONS?

Real estate partition actions involve legally dividing a jointly owned property when co-owners cannot agree on the disposition, resulting in either physical division of the land or sale and division of proceeds.

More on Real Estate Partition Actions

WHAT IS AN EASEMENT?

An easement is a legal right allowing someone to use another's property for a specific purpose, such as access, utilities, or drainage. It doesn't transfer ownership and typically remains with the property through ownership changes.

More on Easements

WHO CAN CLAIM PROPERTY BASED ON ADVERSE POSSESION IN NEW YORK?

In New York, to claim property through adverse possession, one must occupy the property openly, continuously, exclusively, and hostilely for a period of 10 years.

WHY DO PEOPLE HIRE REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS IN NEW YORK?

Common reasons include navigating the complexities of buying or selling property, resolving disputes, ensuring compliance with local laws, and handling specific issues like foreclosure or zoning.

Real Estate Attorneys in Long Island, NY