Residential Real Estate Lawyer in Palm Coast, FL
For assistance with a residential real estate transaction or dispute in Palm Coast, FL, turn to Chiumento Law. We are a full-service law firm that has provided trusted legal guidance to people in Flagler and Volusia Counties for a half-century. We can apply our experience and knowledge of Florida real estate law to serve your needs.
Our knowledgeable attorneys can help you with a range of residential real estate matters, from preparing residential purchase agreements and mortgage documents to handling closings, transfer documents, zoning requests, and disputes with homeowners’ associations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a residential real estate lawyer in Palm Coast.
What Does Residential Real Estate Cover?
The term residential real estate refers to all real property used for residential purposes, including single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, and vacation homes and land. The real estate attorneys with Chiumento Law can help you buy or sell a home or undeveloped property. We can assist with zoning and permitting, prepare a property title, and handle any subsequent disputes arising from the transaction. In addition, we can address issues relating to your homeowner association, landlord/tenant disputes, or matters dealing with your mortgage, covenants, or land use.
Transactions and Disputes Related to Residential Real Estate
Once a residential real estate transaction is complete, certain issues may arise that call for legal representation. These issues include:
- Homeowner Associations (HOAs) – Although a neighborhood covenant specifies the rules for the neighborhood, Florida law dictates how Homeowner Associations (HOAs) may manage neighborhoods and enforce those covenants. Your neighborhood covenant likely includes rules concerning additions to an existing home or outbuildings, fences, roofs, and other exterior characteristics of homes. The covenant may provide that the HOA’s Architectural Control Committee must approve any alterations. Disputes may arise if, for example, the HOA and its Architectural Control Committee disagree about the nature of the alterations. The HOA may initiate a cause of action against a homeowner if the homeowner breaches rules or does not pay their maintenance dues. Our lawyers can review and interpret your neighborhood’s covenant to determine whether you may have a claim against the HOA. We also can defend you if the HOA files a lawsuit against you.
- Code Violations – A neighborhood code violation can be stressful for any homeowner, whether the cited home is their primary residence or a vacation home they lease. Contact a residential real estate attorney as soon as possible after receiving notice of a code violation. That way, they will be involved at the outset to assist in all aspects of what can become a complex and costly process.
- Code Enforcement – The laws concerning County or Municipal Code Enforcement are set by Florida state statute. Navigating this bureaucracy is difficult on your own. At Chiumento Law, we can help you by requesting extensions to bring any violation into compliance, arguing for a reduction in the fine or penalty associated with the violation, and representing you at any hearings or appeals.
- Foreclosure – The foreclosure process can be difficult without the help of an experienced residential real estate lawyer. At Chiumento Law, we have extensive experience representing Florida homeowners in foreclosure proceedings. From your first notice of default to hearings or settlement conferences, we can guide you throughout every stage of the process Our attorneys can work with you and the lender to avoid foreclosure and will explore every available option to allow you to stay in your home.
Benefits of Hiring a Residential Real Estate Lawyer
Real property represents the largest investment many of us will ever make. Real estate contracts are complex and contain legal terminology that can be confusing to anyone unfamiliar with the terms. By hiring a residential real estate lawyer, you give yourself an advocate who knows the process and terminology, can anticipate potential issues and help you avoid them, protect your interests, and help you avoid costly missteps.
The home-buying process can be intimidating. Chiumento Law can help you in several ways, such as:
- By making sure the property meets your needs– Residential property can be encumbered by land use or zoning restrictions. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate the property and any restrictions on its use to ascertain its suitability for your intended purposes.
- By addressing any liens– Our real estate attorneys will perform a comprehensive title search to determine whether any lien claims exist on the property. We will examine the chain of title to be sure that you obtain a clear title, allowing you to avoid future ownership disputes.
- By negotiating on your behalf – With an attorney to review and negotiate the terms of any proposed Purchase Agreement, you can be confident that your interests are protected. From reviewing the home inspection report to negotiating necessary repairs, our real estate attorneys can help you get the most out of your deal.
At Chiumento Law, we want your residential real estate transaction to go as smoothly as possible. It is our goal to address any issues or potential disputes during the transaction to avoid the time and expense of litigation in the future.
Contact Our Palm Coast Residential Real Estate Lawyers
Chiumento Law is a full-service law firm ready to assist you with your legal needs, not only in residential real estate law but in a number of other areas as well. We are proud that many of our clients have long-standing relationships with us. From its founding in 1973, Chiumento Law has grown to a team of attorneys serving clients in offices in Palm Coast and Ormond Beach. We offer personal, one-on-one attention to our clients, and we hope that includes you.
Ready to discuss your legal needs with an experienced Palm Coast residential real estate lawyer? Then contact us online or call us today at (386) 445-8900.
