Category: Real Estate Law
Nonconforming Lots, Structures, and Uses in Maine
A lawfully pre-existing nonconforming property is a use, structure, or lot that existed lawfully prior to the enactment of the zoning ordinance. These properties have to have been continuously maintained …
Nonconforming Lots, Structures, and Uses in Maine
A nonconforming or grandfathered property is a use, structure, or lot that existed lawfully prior to the enactment of the zoning ordinance, and has been continuously maintained since the effective …
Can Municipalities Make a Profit From Tax Lien Sales?
Can a Municipality Make a Profit by Selling my Property After a Tax Lien Foreclosure? Prior to 2015, the answer was always yes. Regardless of the amount received at the …
LUPC VARIANCE
The State legislature created the Maine Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC) formerly known as the Land Use Regulatory Commission (LURC) by statute entitled 12 MRSA Chapter 206-A Land Use …
In Light of the Recent Devastating Wind Storm, You May Want to Take a Look at Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Last week, a wind storm of epic proportions ravaged much of Maine. High speed winds knocked down trees, blew off roofs, and wreaked havoc with the power grid. As of …
Residential Landlords: Beware the Untested Lease Template
Landlords of commercial properties have a great deal of freedom in drafting their lease agreements. Residential landlords do not have the same degree of latitude. Maine, like other states, has …
Why an Attorney can be helpful with a Purchase and Sale Agreement in residential matters
When purchasing or selling a property, most Buyers and Sellers concern themselves with the financial aspect of the transaction and not the legal aspects of the transaction. A purchase and …
The Maine Home Construction Contract Act and its Potential Impact on Your Home Construction or Improvement Project
Spring is finally here, bringing a close to another hard Maine winter and (hopefully) the start of some sunny and warm weather. Oftentimes, spring also signifies the beginning of something …
Conservation Easements
You are a landowner with a parcel of land that you do not want to see developed, what do you do to protect it? You might protect the land by …
The 2015 Amendments to Mandatory Shoreland Zoning and How They Impact the Expansion of a Non-Conforming Use
The Legislature adopted the Mandatory Shoreland Zoning Act in 1971. The current law requires municipalities to establish land use controls for all “shoreland areas” defined as: “areas within 250 feet …
