Title records validate who is the owner of real property. They allow mortgage companies and banks to use real property as the collateral for a mortgage. Lenders can record liens, as can creditors who secure judgments from the courts. Those liens and ownership records...
REAL ESTATE LAW – Real Estate Law
Can you change a real estate zone by applying for a variance?
Real estate is generally divided into zones, including commercial, residential and industrial zones. Zoning determines the types of uses that are permitted in a given area. Anyone who owns property needs to understand the applicable zoning regulations and how to stay...
Can a neighbor erect a fence over the property line?
Fences often become the source of neighborly disputes. In some cases, neighbors may disagree about the size or style of a fence erected on a property line. If age or inclement weather causes damage to a fence, then there could be disputes about how neighbors divide...
3 potential title issues
During a real estate transfer, it is important to ensure that there are no serious issues with the title. These are often referred to as title defects. Performing a search in advance can help expose them and allow you to take steps to rectify them. But the first step...
Can you sell family land with a tangled title?
For many families in Macon, a home is more than just a place to live. It is a source of stability and wealth passed down through generations. However, many people discover they do not actually own the land they live on because the deed is still in the name of a...
Found defects in your new home? Who is liable in Georgia?
Discovering defects in your new home, like a leaking roof or a cracked foundation, is deeply frustrating. Your first question is likely: Who must fix this? The answer in Georgia is often complicated. Responsibility for construction defects does not just fall on the...
Why hire a local law firm for a title search?
The home purchase process is complicated. Many buyers assume that the process effectively ends when the seller accepts their offer, but there are still many steps left for them to complete. The property likely has to undergo an inspection and an appraisal. The buyers...
What are my options during a boundary dispute?
Boundary disputes often arise between neighbors due to unclear property lines or encroachments. These conflicts can lead to significant stress and financial burden. You can mitigate this risk by understanding the typical causes and legal avenues for resolution. Common...
One thing that can help you clear up a title issue
If you are looking to buy a property or have doubts about one you currently own, getting a clear answer as to how the title stands could be a good idea. While some disputed titles may take a long time to resolve, often, something known as a quiet title action can...
3 types of easements you should know about when buying real estate
When buying real estate, it is important to understand the rights and restrictions that may affect how a property can be used. Easements are one of those key considerations. An easement gives someone else the right to use part of the property for a specific purpose....

