RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
The contract that you sign to buy, sell, or construct your home is probably the most significant financial transaction that you will undertake in your lifetime.
In a purchase or sales transaction, the two most important documents are the Offer to Purchase and the Purchase and Sales Agreement. Contrary to what some real estate agents will tell you, these are not "standard" forms that you can safely sign without having an attorney review them first. You are contractually binding yourself to numerous important terms including title to the property, inspection and mortgage contingencies, and the safekeeping of deposit money. Because each transaction is different, you need an attorney who will customize your real estate documents to best protect you.
When we represent you in a real estate transaction, we work with all parties, including real estate agents, banks, mortgage brokers, and other attorneys to ensure a smooth and efficient closing with your interests protected throughout the process.
We also act as the closing attorney for banks and mortgage companies in both purchase and refinancing transactions and provide all title services, including title searches and policies.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Our office represents contractors and developers in the construction business, as well as persons building their dream home or planning an extensive remodel.
Massachusetts law provides a number of legal protections to both contractors and homeowners through the mechanic's lien process, the Home Improvement Contractor Law, and the consumer protection statute. We seek to avoid construction problems by ensuring that our clients are aware of and are operating in accordance with Massachusetts law.
Our office will draft and review construction contracts and provide legal advice to clients who are in the midst of a dispute. Based upon our evaluation of your facts, the likelihood of success on your claim, and the ability to collect a judgment, we will also agree to litigate certain construction claims on your behalf. Because construction litigation is long and expensive, however, our first goal is always to try and avoid these disputes.
ZONING, CONSERVATION, AND SPECIAL PERMIT APPLICATIONS
We represent clients before local boards and commissions, including the Zoning Board of Appeal, Planning Board, and Conservation Commission.
The permitting process involves numerous legal requirements; one small mistake on your part can lead to denials, and in some cases, the inability to refile your application for two years. We prepare the necessary application paperwork to ensure that your legal interests are protected, and we appear before the government entity on your behalf.
RESIDENTIAL TAX APPEALS
We have significant experience in representing clients who believe that their real property is overvalued.
Massachusetts law provides a detailed process for challenging local tax assessments, with important time deadlines and evidentiary standards that must be met at each step. We have appeared before both local Boards of Assessors and the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board in the successful prosecution of these tax assessment challenges. |