Category: Real Estate
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 …
Why is a deposit so necessary to a purchase and sale agreement?
Several times clients that are purchasing real estate have asked, “Do I really need to give a deposit?” The parties say “This is a friendly transaction, is it really necessary …
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 …
What Sellers of Real Estate in Maine Need to Know About Warranty Deeds
There are several types of deeds used to convey real estate in Maine, all of which can have significantly different consequences for the buyer and seller should a problem with …
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 …
New Maine Firearms Law Poses Challenges for Landlords of Subsidized Housing
On April 5, 2016, Governor Paul LePage signed into law “An Act to Ensure Nondiscrimination Against Gun Owners in Certain Federally Subsidized Housing.” The bill, which takes effect this summer, …
