Whether you’re buying a home or putting commercial property on the market, real estate sales are probably the most significant financial transactions you’ll ever make. To protect the interests of buyers, sellers, and neighbors, the legal system has established strict rights and obligations for all parties in the transaction, as well as limitations on how a property may be used. It’s key to understand how these laws serve you at various stages of the real estate process.  

A Primer on the Importance of Real Estate Law

Seller Disclosures

Any building may have problems that might not be immediately visible, and sellers usually can’t be held accountable if something goes wrong after closing. However, most states require that they tell potential buyers about any defects they’re aware of before the sale goes through. If you find out later that the sellers concealed problems, like painting over mold in the basement or lying about the age of the roof, you may be able to sue for the cost of repairs, or cancel the sale entirely.

Boundary Disputes

Although property line disputes often arise from honest mistakes, they can be extremely expensive, especially if you have to remove a fence or structure that crosses a boundary. Real estate law protects the rights of property owners and provides tools for preventing these disputes in the first place. Some areas might require a property survey before a sale, so buyers will know exactly where the boundary lines lie.

Zoning Laws

Zoning laws allow city governments to control development and protect neighborhood integrity. For example, municipalities might prevent a developer from building a major industrial facility in a quiet residential area. These laws also limit how existing buildings can be modified and used, so buyers planning on extensive renovations or changing the purpose of a property should speak to an attorney before making an offer.

If you’re planning a real estate investment, the legal teams at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello P.C. in New Haven and Hartford, CT, and Warwick, RI, have the expertise to protect your interests at every step of the process. Since 1946, they’ve provided effective legal solutions to New England business owners for everything from corporate entity formation to real estate transactions. Visit their website for a closer look at their services, follow their Facebook for more insights, or call (203) 789-­0001 to schedule a consultation.