A 1031 exchange offers real estate investors a powerful tool to defer capital gains taxes, but the process is fraught with strict requirements and tight deadlines. Even experienced investors can stumble into costly pitfalls that jeopardize their tax deferral....
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Riddell Law Group Blog
How can real estate complicate probate in Florida?
Losing a loved one is hard enough without the added stress of sorting through property paperwork. If your family member owned a home, a vacation property or land in Florida, you may find that real estate turns a fairly straightforward probate case into a much longer...
What happens if a seller cannot deliver clear title in Florida?
You found the right property, arranged financing and set a closing date. Then the title search turns up a lien or an ownership question no one expected. Title problems can stall a Florida closing, so it helps to know what happens next and what choices you may have....
Can a trust help avoid probate for real estate?
If you own real estate in Sarasota, Florida, you may wonder whether your property will have to go through probate after your death. Probate can take time, create additional expenses, and delay the transfer of property to your loved ones. Fortunately, a properly funded...
What most Florida condo buyers forget to check
A Sarasota condo can look perfect during a showing. The view is right, the location feels easy and the numbers may seem to work for seasonal rental income. But the real cost of a condo is not always visible from the balcony. Before signing, buyers need to look closely...
What disclosures must sellers make under Florida law?
When you attempt to sell a property, it takes more than just finding a buyer and signing a contract. State law requires you to disclose certain information. Understanding why can help you avoid legal complications down the line. The "known facts" standard Florida...
5 issues that can arise after closing on a house
Buyers acquiring residential real estate usually expect a few issues to pop up between when the seller accepts their offer and they sign the closing documents. The closing is when ownership and keys often change hands. Buyers can then assume possession of the property...
5 clauses to watch in a Florida real estate contract
Buying a Florida home is a major commitment, and the contract you sign is what binds you to the deal. Before you reach the closing table, a few clauses deserve more than a quick glance. These are the ones that quietly shape your options if something goes wrong....
What happens to your new property if you die without a will?
Closing on a new property marks the beginning of homeownership, but it should also prompt a critical question: who inherits this asset if the unexpected happens? When you pass away without a legal plan, you generally lose control over your most valuable asset. The...
What happens if a previous owner forged a deed?
You may have just learned that the previous owner forged the deed to the home you are buying. This can place your investment and closing timeline at risk. In Florida, property transfers require valid deeds that are properly executed and recorded. A forged deed is...
