Buying Property
An escalation clause needs a ceiling and a definition of a competing offer
Before using an escalation clause in a home offer, understand the cap, competing-offer evidence and the difference between headline and net price.
Inside the property journal
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Apartment ownership
Buying a share of freehold still calls for a careful lease review
A share of freehold does not make a flat’s lease irrelevant. Learn which ownership and management documents to discuss before buying in England or Wales.
Apartment ownership
Before changing a condo balcony, check who controls it
Before changing a condo balcony, separate exclusive use from ownership and repair duties. Use the building documents to ask more precise buying questions.
Property Due Diligence
Buying a home with a private well: ask what the water test actually covered
A private well needs more than a clear glass of water at a viewing. Ask about the sample, laboratory, tested contaminants and the system’s records.
Home Due Diligence
A utility easement can affect where a buyer may build
Before planning an extension, fence or pool, find out whether a utility easement crosses the property and what the recorded agreement allows.
Buying Property
An escrow holdback for unfinished home repairs needs a written finish line
An escrow holdback may address unfinished repairs, but the lender, written scope, inspection and release conditions must agree before closing.