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People who acquire real property typically control the ownership and use of that property. They decide when to transfer the property to others and who has access to the property. Occasionally, outside parties may have certain rights. Easements allow neighbors,...
People can acquire joint ownership of real property through multiple means. Sometimes, two or more people pool their resources to purchase shared property. They may do so for affordable housing or as an investment. Other times, groups of siblings or cousins might...
You might wake up to the rumble of trucks using your road to reach a nearby build site. A developer has moved in and turned your quiet street into a construction route. If you never permitted that kind of access, are they legally allowed to use your road without...
The title history for a property shows who owns it currently and who owned it previously. The county recorder's office tracks transfers of ownership, liens and easements to protect all interested parties and limit ownership-related conflicts. In some cases, there may...
Trees generally enhance the appearance of a property. They can also offer various practical benefits. They can provide shade during the summer that can help reduce cooling costs for a home. They can increase property value. They can even produce fruits and nuts that...
People who purchase real property in Massachusetts usually expect to use their right of quiet enjoyment as they see fit. In plain English, they anticipate having complete control over what they do with the property both inside and out. In reality, many properties are...
“The Land Court is a court of limited jurisdiction, as prescribed by statute. See G. L. c. 211B, § 1 (establishing Land Court as department of Trial Court). See also Bevilacqua v. Rodriguez, 460 Mass. 762, 766, 955 N.E.2d 884 (2011), quoting Riverbank Improvement Co....
Finally purchasing your dream home is a significant milestone that you should celebrate. Unfortunately, the excitement of finally owning your piece of real estate can sometimes overshadow crucial details. One nightmare scenario involves discovering that the person who...
Zoning and land use dictate how landowners can use their property. In Massachusetts, these concerns are governed by the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A. This framework enables cities and towns to regulate building development so it encourages safety, health,...
Here in Massachusetts, zoning and land use laws regulate the activities that property owners and developers can undertake. These rules protect communities and the environment, but can be restrictive in some cases. Special permits allow actions that laws and...