Providing legal services to York, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas, our York real estate lawyers represent buyers and sellers in commercial or residential real estate transactions. Selling or buying a home involves much more than agreeing upon a sales price and signing the dotted line. Given the multifaceted aspects of the real estate industry, you want to retain representation that has seen various issues and can help in unique situations.

The legal team at Mette Law is prepared to assist you with your real estate matter. We work with commercial developers, buyers, sellers, property owners, builders, and tenants. Our experienced attorneys will examine your matter to determine the best action, helping you avoid potential issues.

Real Estate Matters We Handle

We have experience assisting clients with the following:

• Purchase and sale of commercial real estate
• Developer representation
• Easement/boundary disputes
• Lease drafting, review, and negotiation
• Real estate ownership structures
• Escrow and title documents
• Commercial landlord/tenant matters
• Land use and zoning
• Commercial leases and development
• Lending transactions
• Purchase and sale agreements
• Settlements/closings

Even though it is nearly impossible to determine how long a matter will take to resolve, our experienced real estate attorneys give pressing matters top priority. By only choosing to work on a limited number of cases, our legal team can give each case the attention it warrants.

What You Should Know about Pennsylvania Real Estate Law

The Keystone State has unique real estate laws. If you are planning on buying or selling property, some of the laws you should be aware of include:

Adverse Possession

Adverse possession allows a trespasser to claim title to a property after using the land for a certain amount of time. Pennsylvania law states that the user must treat the land as if it were their own for 21 years. Adverse possession only applies after an individual maintains “actual, continuous, exclusive, visible, notorious, distinct, and hostile possession” of the real property. However, a single-family home on less than one-half acre of land only requires 10 years of continuous use to claim possession.

Homestead Law

A homestead exemption allows a homeowner to protect a specific portion of their property against creditors. In Pennsylvania, a married couple can only claim a $300 exemption, much lower than most states. If you need to file for bankruptcy, Pennsylvania does not offer a homestead exemption, although you can use the federal exemption limits.

Seller Disclosure Agreements

A Pennsylvania seller must disclose any known material defects regarding the property. Known as the seller disclosure statement, it must give information about the electrical, plumbing, and sewage systems and any appliances or other items that need repair. For the disclosure statement to be valid, it must be created by the Pennsylvania Real Estate Commission.

Security Deposits for Rentals

Pennsylvania law sets strict regulations regarding rentals, prohibiting landlords from charging more than two months’ rent for a security deposit. This cap is reduced to no more than the equivalent of one month’s rent if a deposit is required during your second year.

Real Estate Licensing Requirements

To become certified as a real estate agent in Pennsylvania, realtors must complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education. Pre-licensing education is divided into Real Estate Fundamentals, in which 30 hours must be completed, and Real Estate Practice, in which 45 hours must be completed. The exam itself is rigorous, requiring the test taker to pass the National and state sections. To obtain their license, realtors must be 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be sponsored by a licensed real estate broker.

Navigating the Complexities of the Real Estate Landscape

Given the amount of money in the balance, real estate transactions are almost always stressful. Given the complexities of commercial transactions, you want to work with a team that understands the nuances of Pennsylvania real estate law. When you retain the services of Mette Law, you place the entire process in capable hands. Our team of legal professionals has the knowledge, experience, and persistence to help you attain a successful transaction that is financially gratifying.

Speak with Our Real Estate Lawyers Serving York, PA, Today

If you have a question about a current real estate purchase or sale, have a dispute with a tenant, or have a zoning question, do not hesitate to contact our York real estate lawyers. At Mette Law, real estate matters can feel like nothing is progressing until the very last moment, creating unease amongst all the parties involved. Our legal team attempts to remove some of the anxiety surrounding a matter by getting the answers you need as quickly as possible. To schedule your free consultation, contact us online or call (717) 232-5000.