Real Estate Newsletters

Boundary Fences and Disputes between Neighbors

Most people hope to live harmoniously with their neighbors. Sometimes, however, disputes arise due to varying lifestyles.

Fences -- Livestock

Nearly every state and/or locality has a law with regard to fences and livestock. Generally speaking, the laws fall into two categories: open range and closed range. As the matter is governed by state law and local ordinances, the applicable law should be consulted for further details.

Inspections and Punch Lists

When a buyer works with a builder to plan the construction of a new home, the buyer will have an opportunity to look at models, drawings, plans and specifications. The combination of these documents gives the buyer a general idea of what the home will eventually look like. As the construction progresses, the idea takes form; however, until the process is complete and the buyer has actually walked through the completed structure, the buyer has no idea whether everything has been completed as imagined and in a workmanlike manner.

Termite Inspections

In residential real estate transactions, it is not uncommon for standard contracts to contain a clause that makes the buyer's consummation of the transaction contingent upon the home passing a termite inspection.

Trees - Fruit & Nut Trees

Generally speaking, a property owner may cut back branches and roots that stray onto the property owner's property. The right of self-help, as it is called, is not found in state law; however, it derives from the common law. The rationale behind the right of self-help is that, to the extent possible, property owners should be able to protect their interests without the necessity of resorting to the courts.