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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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Ancient Scroll with Quill Pen and Wax Seal

What is a covenant?

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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Property Boundary Dispute with Fence and Documents

What is adverse possession?

Adverse possession is a property law doctrine that can let a non-owner become the legal owner after openly and continuously possessing land for a state-defined period (often 5–30 years). The possession typically must be actual, hostile, exclusive, and notorious to qualify. This article explains the core elements, time limits, and how states apply the rule. […]
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Property with Easement Pathway Illustrated

What is an easement?

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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Legal Gavel and Documents on Wooden Surface

What is condemnation?

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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Gavel Striking Next to House Keys and Legal Documents

What is eminent domain?

Eminent domain is the government’s power to take private property for public use, but the Fifth Amendment requires “just compensation.” It applies at federal, state, and local levels through a condemnation process that includes notice and an opportunity to challenge the taking or value. This article explains how eminent domain works and what rights property […]
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