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The purchase of a home raises many legal and technical questions and problems. Many things need to be considered aside from the purchase price and terms of payments. Everything from unpaid taxes to a leaky roof should be on your checklist. Most of us move into a home without any unusual requirements. If, however, you want to board a horse, add a room or otherwise depart from the routine, you should ask a number of questions. An acquaintance of mine once signed a contract to buy a home, only to learn afterward that there were deed restrictions against installing his very high ham-radio antenna. With the seller's cooperation, he was able to back out of the deal and find another home without such limitations. But, he learned a valuable lesson in the process. Deed restrictions, bylaws in town house or condominium communities, zoning restrictions and the like may prevent or restrict your plans for the property you wish to by. Every buyer expects to receive good and marketable title. In that regard, you should insist on a title insurance policy and read carefully all documents generated by the title insurance company. Different types of policies are available, and most title insurance companies will explain the policies offered and the extent of coverage available. A careful reading of title insurance company reports will answer many of your questions and alert you to possible problem areas. Do not hesitate to ask questions. Your original purchase contract should, among other things, be contingent on your acceptance and approval of the title company's report on the property. If you intend to buy a house in the near future, some professional counseling before you begin would be well worth the small amount of time and money involved. A single consultation with an attorney may save you many headaches in the future. As with any important transaction, however, professional guidance at all stages is advisable. |