3 Real Estate Law Issues You Should Understand When Buying a Property

When you are looking to buy a property, it is important to understand the different types of laws that may be involved. Some laws may be specific to your state while others may be more general. You may need to hire a lawyer to help you with the process, but it is still important to understand the basics. Here are three real estate law issues that you should be aware of before purchasing a property.

1. Zoning Laws

Zoning laws are put in place by local governments to control how the land can be used. These laws can dictate things like what types of buildings can be constructed on a piece of land, how many stories tall they can be, and how close they can be to the property line. It is important to research the zoning laws in the area where you want to buy a property to make sure that you will be able to use it the way you want. These laws can have a big impact on the value of a property, so it is important to understand them before making an offer.

2. Building Codes

Building codes are a set of standards that must be met in order for a building to be considered safe. These codes cover things like the materials that can be used in construction, the minimum size of rooms, and the strength of foundations. All buildings must meet these codes in order to be occupied, so it is important to make sure that any property you are considering meets them as well.

3. Environmental Laws

Environmental laws are designed to protect the environment from pollution and other forms of damage. These laws can place restrictions on how the land can be used, what types of businesses can operate there, and what kind of development can take place. If you are buying a property that is located in an area that is subject to environmental regulations, you will need to make sure that you are aware of those regulations and that you will be able to comply with them.

As you can see, it is important to have at least a basic understanding of these laws before you make an offer on a property. Otherwise, you could find yourself in a situation where you are not able to use the property the way you want or face penalties for violating the law. If you have any questions about these or other real estate laws, you should consult with a real estate lawyer before moving forward with your purchase.