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Property Tax Assessment Document with Calculator

What is a property tax assessment?

A property tax assessment is a local government’s valuation of your property used to calculate your annual tax bill. Assessors estimate an assessed value based on market data, property features, and assessment rules, then apply the local tax rate. This article explains how assessments work, what affects value, and how to review or appeal. Understanding […]
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Mechanic's Lien Documents and Construction Tools

What is a mechanic’s lien?

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim filed against real property to secure payment for unpaid construction labor or materials. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers use it to protect their right to get paid and can potentially force a sale if the debt isn’t resolved. This article explains how mechanic’s liens work, key deadlines, and options […]
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Three People Discussing Property Ownership Documents

What is tenancy in common?

Tenancy in common is a way for two or more people to own the same property with separate, potentially unequal shares, each of which can be sold or inherited. Unlike joint tenancy, it doesn’t include a right of survivorship, so an owner’s share typically passes through their estate. This article explains how tenancy in common […]
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Joint Tenancy Property Ownership Diagram

What is joint tenancy?

Joint tenancy is a form of co-ownership where each owner has an equal share and, upon one owner’s death, their interest automatically passes to the surviving owner(s) through the right of survivorship. It’s commonly used for homes and other assets to avoid probate, but it can also affect inheritance plans and creditor exposure. This article […]
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Warranty Deed Document with House Keys

What is a warranty deed?

A warranty deed is a real estate deed that transfers property and guarantees the seller holds clear title, with legal promises to defend against past and future title claims. It offers the strongest buyer protection among common deeds, unlike quitclaim deeds that provide no title warranties. This article explains how warranty deeds work, the key […]
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Quitclaim Deed Document with Pen and Glasses

What is a quitclaim deed?

A quitclaim deed is a legal document that transfers whatever ownership interest the grantor has in real property—if any—without warranties of title. It’s commonly used for low-risk transfers between family members, spouses after divorce, or to correct title issues, but it offers the buyer little protection. This article explains how quitclaim deeds work, when they’re […]
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Legal Document with "lis Pendens" Text and Gavel

What is a lis pendens?

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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Gavel and Keys Symbolizing Unlawful Detainer Law

What is unlawful detainer?

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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Family Packing Belongings Outside Apartment Building

What is an eviction?

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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Lease Agreement Document with Pen and Keys on Desk

What is a lease?

A lease is a legally binding contract that lets a tenant use a property for a set term in exchange for rent. It spells out key terms like duration, payment amount, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and rules for renewal or termination. This article explains what a lease is, common lease types, essential clauses, tenant and […]
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Landlord and Tenant Signing Rental Agreement

What is a landlord-tenant agreement?

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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Suburban Homes with Hoa Meeting and Documents

What is a homeowners association?

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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