| Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act |
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| In 1968, Congress enacted the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act, 15 U.S.C.S. § 1701 (1998). In enacting the law, it was Congress' purpose to eliminate fraud in interstate sales of land. Briefly stated, the law requires certain disclosures in connection with the sale of vacant land. Despite numerous challenges since its enactment, the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act has passed constitutional muster.
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| Land Trusts |
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| A land trust is a device by which land is conveyed to a trustee for the benefit of another. A settlor is the owner of the property that is placed into the trust. A land trust is created when settlor expresses his or her intent to create a trust through a written instrument. The instrument must name the trustee and identify the trustee's powers, the beneficiaries, and any remaindermen. The settlor may be the trustee and, in most cases, the beneficiary of the land trust. More... |
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| Insuring Your Real Estate against Liability |
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| A homeowner, a landlord, or a tenant may be subject to liability if someone is injured on the premises. If there is no insurance, the damages will have to be paid out of pocket. Various types of insurance policies can shift liability from the property owner to an insurance company in exchange for the payment of premiums. More... |
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| Noisy Neighbors |
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| The regulation of noise from any source is governed by state and local law. Sometimes, the rules governing the rental of leased premises also restrict noise levels. Lastly, the rules governing planned unit developments often set forth prohibitions against unreasonable levels of noise. Protections against noise vary widely and must be consulted individually for further details. More... |
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| Percolation Tests |
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| A percolation test, or "perc test," is performed on undeveloped land in order to determine whether the land is absorbent enough to support the installation of a septic system. Typically, the test is performed by a hydraulic engineer. More... |
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