An eviction is the legal process a landlord uses to remove a tenant after a lease violation or other lawful reason, typically through a court order. Most states require written notice and an opportunity to respond before a sheriff or marshal can enforce removal. This article explains what counts as an eviction, common grounds and […]
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Unlawful detainer is a legal eviction lawsuit a landlord files to regain possession of a rental property after a tenant stays past the lease term or violates the lease and doesn’t move out. It typically begins after proper written notice is served and can move quickly through court depending on state deadlines. This article explains
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A lis pendens is a recorded public notice that a lawsuit may affect title to a specific piece of real estate. It alerts buyers and lenders that ownership or lien rights are being contested and can make selling or refinancing difficult until the case is resolved. This article explains what a lis pendens is, when
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A homeowners association (HOA) is a private governing body in a planned community that enforces rules and collects mandatory dues from property owners. HOAs are typically created by a developer through recorded covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) and can fine owners or place liens for certain violations or unpaid assessments. This article explains how HOAs
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A landlord-tenant agreement is a legally binding contract that sets the terms for renting a property, including rent amount, lease length, deposits, and each party’s rights and responsibilities. It helps prevent disputes by clearly defining rules for payment, maintenance, access, and what happens if the lease is broken. This article explains what a landlord-tenant agreement
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A covenant is a legally binding promise attached to property—typically recorded in the deed—that restricts or requires certain uses by current and future owners. Covenants “run with the land,” meaning they usually apply even after the property is sold and may be enforced by an HOA or neighbors. This article explains common covenant types, enforcement,
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A zoning law is a local ordinance that regulates land use by dividing a city or town into zones (such as residential, commercial, or industrial). It sets what you can build or operate on a property and often includes limits like height, density, and setbacks. This article explains how zoning works, common zoning types, and
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A variance is a zoning-law exception that allows a property owner to deviate from specific code requirements when strict compliance would cause unnecessary hardship. It is granted by a local zoning board and typically runs with the land, not the owner. This article explains what variances are, when they apply, and how the approval process
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Condemnation is an eminent domain proceeding where a federal, state, or local government can take private property for public use with just compensation under the Fifth Amendment. It’s commonly used for projects like roads, schools, and utilities, and owners can challenge the taking or the payment amount. This article explains how condemnation works and the
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An easement is a legal right to use another person’s property for a specific purpose without owning it. It typically “runs with the land,” meaning it can remain in effect when the property is sold. This article explains easement basics, common types, and why they matter in real estate transactions. Understanding Easements: The Basics An
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