Help With Real Estate Law From a Skilled Attorney in Fredericksburg
For more than three decades, clients have relied on the knowledge and legal guidance that James W. Hilldrup, PLC offers in the area of Virginia real estate law. Our firm understands that in most circumstances real estate is a significant investment. We offer legal services to help you accomplish your goals and protect your interests in the following real estate legal areas:
- Landlord/Tenant Law. Landlord/tenant law governs the relationship between the property owner and the party leasing the property. Each party has obligations based on their contractual agreement, and having an experienced real estate lawyer to draft a lease is the first essential step toward avoiding disputes. Virginia statutes set the parameters for security deposits ― guidelines that determine deposit amounts and the circumstances under which landlords have the right to withhold a security deposit from the renter. There are also specific notification and inspection guidelines that landlords must adhere to regarding property conditions. When evicting a renter, landlords must also follow proper legal procedures based on deadlines and actions approved by the court.
- Real Estate Closings. Real estate closings are complex transactions that encompass numerous steps. Some aspects involved with a real estate closing are obtaining title insurance, drafting sound purchase-sale agreements, meeting loan qualifications and conducting property inspections. To finalize escrow, all documentation must be recorded and executed. A real estate attorney also ensures that fund transfers occur and that the seller files required sales transaction reports required by the IRS.
- Short Sales. Short sales can help homeowners avoid foreclosure or bankruptcy. Lenders often prefer short sales to avert foreclosure expenses or losses sustained when the borrower files bankruptcy. In a short sale, the property is no longer worth the value of the mortgage, but the lender agrees to cut losses and accept the proceeds for a declining asset. An attorney well-versed in real estate law in Virginia provides homeowners and lenders with valuable expertise when negotiating a short sale settlement agreement.
- Zoning/Subdivisions. Zoning ordinances and land use laws limit how landowners may use their property. Landowners frequently have to go through the proper legal channels by obtaining permits, variances, easements or other legal instruments to accomplish their land use purposes. Depending on whether the property is for residential or commercial use, different restrictions apply. Every county and municipality legislate their own particular ordinances and laws. An attorney with a well-established real estate practice and long-standing experience in the community acquires in-depth knowledge of the many hurdles property owners encounter. Land use and zoning involves several factors, such as lot size restrictions or public access requirements. Seasoned legal guidance can help you obtain the necessary approvals.
Contact an experienced attorney about Virginia real estate law today
If you own commercial or residential real estate in Virginia and need legal assistance or are considering a real estate purchase or sale, the Fredericksburg office of James W. Hilldrup, PLC can provide you with trustworthy legal services. Contact our law office today.
