Real Estate Law in Fort Lauderdale, FL
What Is Real Estate Law?
Are you getting ready to purchase or sell some property? Are you involved in a property or real estate dispute? Or, maybe you are having trouble getting your landlord to make repairs to the home? Whether or not you are a property owner or tenant, you have rights under Fort Lauderdale, Florida real estate law. Developers, property managers, and investors can also face property issues. Common reasons for this include property rights, access, liabilities, and more. These matters are complicated, so the best first step is to seek the counsel of a qualified Fort Lauderdale real estate attorney.
Types of Real Estate Law Disputes
Disputes involving real estate are very common and some of them are quite complex. They often require the intervention of the courts. The courts are seen as the most biased party to weigh in fairly. Learn more about the different types of real estate disputes below.
Escrow Deposit
If you decide to purchase any Fort Lauderdale property, there are certain steps all involved parties must take. One is having an escrow account. A common reason escrow disputes occur is when the closing process fails and the buyer and seller cannot agree on what happens with the funds.
Easement Real Estate Dispute
Easement disputes are one of the most common forms of real estate disputes between neighbors, especially when property ownership changes. An easement allows other people or parties access to use certain portions of your property. Easements are not always granted by a property owner. Information regarding easements is often included in Fort Lauderdale, FL property deeds. Regardless of the reason for the dispute, the resolution often involves hiring an experienced real estate law attorney. Still, one step you can take to resolve the matter before pursuing litigation is talking amicably with the other party.
Fraud/Omissions
Some unscrupulous sellers try to take advantage of buyers by withholding information. Ultimately, they may do this to impact the outcome of the transactions and future ownership. Proving fraud in a real estate transaction can be an uphill battle. It is almost always necessary to work with an experienced Fort Lauderdale real estate lawyer to straighten things out.
In Johnson v. Davis, the Florida Supreme Court held that sellers must disclose certain facts or conditions about the property. It is mandatory to disclose issues that affect the property’s value or desirability and that would not be obvious to the seller. In addition, by statute, Fort Lauderdale sellers must provide information on radon levels, erosion issues, and homeowner’s associations. These disclosures do not necessarily have to be in writing, but an optional disclosure form is available. Keep in mind that the disclosure rules apply even if the Fort Lauderdale property is sold “as is”.
Contract Breaches
No Fort Lauderdale, Florida real estate transaction is enforceable without a contract. Not all contracts are valid. The requirements for what to include in a valid real estate agreement vary from state to state. However, documents that are missing certain elements or contain unclear or confusing language and in which one party breaches often result in real estate disputes between sellers and buyers. Real estate contracts are enforceable documents. You should never enter into a real estate transaction in Fort Lauderdale without a valid mutually beneficial contract.
Landlord/Tenant
Disputes often arise when Florida landlords and tenants cannot agree on repairs, rent arrears, and more. Fort Lauderdale, FL tenant and landlord laws are very complex and failure to adhere to them can cause either party to violate the rights of the other. Not only is a valid rental agreement crucial, so is having good legal counsel.
Florida’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act govern lease agreements in Fort Lauderdale. Under these statutes, tenants have a responsibility to pay their rent and keep the property clean and damage-free. For their part, landlords must allow peaceful and private possession, giving adequate notice before entry. In addition, landlords have to perform necessary repairs to keep the dwelling fit to live in. Furthermore, Fort Lauderdale landlords must adhere to the city’s housing code.
Boundary Lines
Property line disagreements usually occur when adjoining Fort Lauderdale, FL property owners do not respect property boundaries. Sometimes this is due to a valid misunderstanding between neighbors. Not all property lines are easy to define and property records are not always accurate or easy to understand. Usually, disagreements arise because of fencing, trees, and other boundary line concerns. Though some Florida property owners feel they can take matters into their own hands, doing so could cause more problems. Court intervention is typically the best way to identify and enforce property lines.
Ownership
Ownership issues are common when an owner verbally transfers ownership without documentation. These disputes often happen when someone bequeaths their real estate to another without going through the proper process. Or, there can be other parties with ownership rights, such as certain lien holders.
Determining the rightful owner of a property in Fort Lauderdale is not always easy. Many factors and issues can arise when disagreements over real estate exist.
Liens
Liens can impact your ability to own property or land free and clear. It is possible to sell a property that has liens on it. However, some liens can diminish a property’s sale price. Also, in many cases, liens must clear before securing a mortgage or financing.
When a court enters a judgment against you, Florida statute allows the creditor to attach a lien to your property. For real estate in Fort Lauderdale, the creditor must file the judgment with the Broward County Recorder. Once the lien is attached, it stays on your property for 10 years. However, the creditor may be able to request an extension if you do not pay, for a maximum total of 20 years.
What Should You Do If You Become Involved in a Real Estate Dispute In Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
If you have a real estate issue in which you feel your rights are being violated, or there is a specific issue that has you and another party in disagreement, you may want to speak with a qualified Fort Lauderdale real estate lawyer. Regardless of the issues involved, you can benefit from having legal guidance.
Learn About Real Estate Law
Fort Lauderdale real estate law is quite complex. It is important for you to learn as much as you can about how real estate law applies to your circumstances. Your lawyer will help you to understand what’s at stake and develop a plan of action that helps protect your real estate rights.
Work With an Experienced Real Estate Attorney In Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Real estate disputes make up the majority of litigation cases. Not all issues require you to go to trial. You should work with an experienced Fort Lauderdale lawyer who has the knowledge and experience to get you the resolution you seek. Depending on your disagreement, the courts may include financial compensation and injunctions to prevent retaliation or recurring issues.
Get the legal help you need now. We help Florida landlords, renters, property and more resolve their real estate litigation. Additionally, we can even help you connect with an attorney across Florida state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
