Many homes in Florida are governed by homeowners associations (HOA). HOAs typically have rules and bylaws designed to keep a neighborhood in good shape, partially in order to preserve property values. Yet, in some cases, HOAs go a step beyond what’s considered...
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Year: 2024
HOA fee increases: How much, how often and what can you do?
If you reside in a planned community, homeowner association (HOA) fees may be a fact of life. Associations are generally duty-bound to channel these funds toward maintaining common services, areas and amenities. Rising HOA costs can strain your budget and make you...
What happens in probate court?
When someone passes away, their assets and debts must be managed, distributed and their estate settled. This whole process of administering a deceased person’s estate is overseen by the probate court to ensure everything is done legally and fairly. One of the first...
How Florida real estate developers may put homeowners at risk
Florida has some of the most competitive real estate markets in the country. There is plenty of incentive for developers to invest in the creation of new homes and condominiums. Real estate developers play a crucial role in the modern economy by modifying existing...
How should I address my estate plan with my family?
Contrary to what many people would believe, one of the most difficult parts of estate planning is having a conversation with family members. Many people put off creating an estate plan because of the pressure that could come with discussing their last wishes with...
Do you need to redefine the definition of marital abuse?
Physical abuse – while an important topic of discussion – is not the only kind of abuse that goes on between married couples. It’s well-known that victims of domestic violence often struggle to leave their relationships for many reasons, not the least of which is...
What’s an implied warranty of habitability in construction?
The implied warranty of habitability is a legal doctrine that holds that residential contractors and builders are required to ensure that the properties they build are suitable for living. This warranty implies that certain basic living standards must be met,...
The positive aspects of divorce
While divorce can certainly be challenging and post-divorce life takes some time to adjust to, it isn’t all doom and gloom. The positive aspects of divorce are often overlooked. As well as signifying the end of a romantic relationship, divorce is also a fresh start...
Estate plans should address a risk of emergencies, not just death
Wills can leave very clear instructions about the distribution of someone's property and their desires for interment or cremation. A will is also capable of empowering a guardian to care for someone's children if they die. While having plans in place before someone...
3 unique challenges that unmarried parents face in custody cases
People often associate custody issues with divorce. When couples end marriages while their children are still young, they need to work out a way to share their parental responsibilities and rights. The same can be said of unmarried romantic partners of young kids who...