There are many state and local laws and regulations covering land use, but what reins supreme is the law of supply and demand. If there’s enough demand for something, even if it’s illegal, there will be a supply and the demand will set its price. That’s true for stolen cars,...
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Slander of Title: When False Statements About Property Ownership Causes Harm If someone published a false and disparaging statement about your property and it harmed you, you may have a basis for a lawsuit against that party. Most slander cases concern words published about a person that put them in...
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Adverse Possession: Persistence May Pay Off Adverse possession is the legal term for “squatter’s rights.” It means getting a valid, legal title to real property that’s enforceable against others with more traditional, legal interests (like someone who owns it). Adverse possession cases were generally rare, but with the increase of...
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California has a higher homestead exemption, thanks to a bill signed last year by the Governor. It affords more financial protection for homeowners against unsecured creditors. Given the high cost of California homes and the continuing rise in real estate values, the increase is long overdue. What is a Homestead...
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Homeowners frequently hire outside contractors to complete work in and around their homes. Many contractors who are hired are required to be licensed to perform the functions of their job. Examples of activities where a contractor’s license is required include trimming trees over 15 feet in height, removing tree stumps...
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