When buying or selling real estate in Pennsylvania, you’ll want to ensure you’re compliant with all state and local laws regarding it and that everything goes smoothly. To do this, you’ll want to work with an experienced attorney who knows the laws and can help you throughout the whole process. Here’s everything you need to know about Pennsylvania real estate law so that you can find the best lawyer for your needs.
The basics of real estate law in Pennsylvania
Real estate law in Pennsylvania is complex and can significantly impact both buyers and sellers. This can be confusing, but understanding the basics of real estate law in PA will help you make informed decisions when it comes time to buy or sell your home. To start, it’s important to know that there are two types of real estate transactions: a purchase and a sale. The type of transaction you’re doing will determine the steps involved in the transaction and what kind of lawyer you’ll need for representation. Below are three things you should know about Pennsylvania real estate lawyer and law:
1) A purchase is when someone buys their own property from someone else.
2) When someone sells their property to another person, it’s called a sale.
3) There are different types of sales: A deed without warranty means the seller is not guaranteeing anything about the property. -A deed with a warranty–in this case, the seller guarantees any defects in the title to the buyer if they exist.
Buying a home in Pennsylvania
Buying a home in the state of Pennsylvania is a big decision. Luckily, there are many resources available for potential homeowners. First, make sure you know if you’re buying a single-family home or condo/town home. If it’s the former, you’ll need to know how much it costs on average and what steps you’ll need to take to buy one. If it’s the latter, make sure you have enough money set aside for closing costs and any repairs that might be needed. Plus, remember that condos/town homes require homeowner association dues and will have restrictions on what type of animals are allowed inside.
Selling a home in Pennsylvania
If you sell a home in Pennsylvania, you need to know about the state’s real estate law. If you’re not sure what it is, here are some of the basics:
- If no real estate agent is involved, both parties must sign a Contract for Sale.
- You can’t be forced into a contract where the price is unreasonable.
- If you change your mind and want out of the contract, then you can cancel it within three days after signing.
- A lawyer should review the contract before any signatures are made.
Landlord-tenant law in Pennsylvania
Leases and rental agreements are governed by the Landlord-Tenant Code, which is found in Title 68 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Tenants have certain rights under this code. For example, a tenant must be given written notice of any rent increase or tenancy terms change at least 10 days before it takes effect. A tenant may only be evicted once a landlord has taken action in court and received an order of possession from the court.
Leases and rental agreements in Pennsylvania
The Uniform Commercial Code governs mechanic’s lien law in Pennsylvania. The mechanic’s lien arises when a contractor provides labor or materials in the construction, repair, or improvement of real property and then suffers an unsecured loss due to the non-payment by the person for whom the labor or materials are provided. The mechanic may pursue remedies against other parties who have benefited from the work, such as a subcontractor who has been paid. However, if there is more than one mechanic on-site providing labor or materials, each must present his own claim for lien.
Pennsylvania’s mechanic’s lien law
Mechanic’s liens are a powerful tool for ensuring that those who work on the property or deliver materials for its construction get paid for their work. Mechanic’s liens can be recorded in the county courthouse or the district register of deeds and entitle the holder to priority over other creditors if the owner sells or transfers their property. The lien has a limited duration of one year from the completion of the project but can be extended by recording additional notices in each succeeding year with a five-day grace period. These liens are not discharged upon conveyance of title to the project. In order to perfect a mechanic’s lien, you must comply with all statutory requirements.