Earnest money plays a crucial role in buying or selling a property. While the law doesn't require earnest money, buyers typically offer it as a show of good faith. It demonstrates their commitment to purchasing the property, as well as provides the seller with...
Month: November 2020
How to reduce family conflict over your estate plan
Much of the estate planning process is focused on leaving assets to loved ones and charitable causes that you believe in. While that process may give you a sense of comfort since you’ll know that those you care about will be taken care of, the process can end up...
Can I avoid eminent domain by proving historical value?
Having a home is a wonderful experience, primarily when you have worked hard to restore it. You have had the house in your family for a long time, but it is only now that you can fix it enough to live in it. Imagine your surprise when you see a notice that the...
How can a contract review help avoid business disputes?
In the world of business, contracts are the foundation of any successful partnership. However, a poorly drafted or misunderstood contract can lead to disputes, which may ruin business relationships and finances. If you are a business owner, why must you know the...
Can you appeal a property tax valuation in Ohio?
Are you stunned by your property tax bill? In Ohio, many homeowners and businesses question the value placed on their property every year. But what can you do about it? The good news is that you do not have to accept the valuation at face value. There are options...
Six tips for talking to your parents about estate planning
Are your parents getting older? If so, are you worried about whether they have an effective estate plan in place? It’s a concern that many adult children have for their aging parents given that an estate plan not only affects the distribution of one’s assets, but also...
Can you get help from the government for displacement?
When the government knocks on your door with plans to take your property, it can feel like your world is turning upside down. Eminent domain projects often leave families and businesses scrambling to find new homes or locations. However, the government offers...
Protecting your business from lawsuits
Ohio business owners know that a lawsuit can spell disaster for their business. Between the cost and time involved in litigation and the potential damage to business reputation, even one lawsuit can mean the difference between the ultimate success and failure of your...
What qualifies necessary public use?
One fundamental factor in eminent domain is that the taking of property meets the threshold under state law for “necessary public use.” As the owner weighs their strategy and decides whether to fight the seizure or simply move forward and accept it, this is a major...
What is a 1031 like-kind exchange?
If you are in the business of buying and selling real estate for investment purposes, you will likely hear about the advantages of a “1031” or “like-kind” exchange at some point. A like-kind exchange, often called a 1031 exchange, is swapping one piece of real estate...