| Like-Kind Exchanges |
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| Internal Revenue Code § 1031 provides the procedure for a little-used tax shelter known as a like-kind exchange. In essence, §1031 allows the exchange of business or investment property for other business or investment property of like-kind, with tax-deferral benefits. More... |
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| Tax Liens |
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| A tax lien is a mechanism that is available to a taxing authority to insure the payment of taxes. With regard to real property, a tax lien may arise when a property owner fails to pay the taxes that are due on a property. A tax lien constitutes a cloud upon the property owner's title to the property. More... |
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| Prohibition of Discrimination in the Sale or Rental of Real Estate |
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| The Fair Housing Act, which can be found at 42 U.S.C.S. § 3601 et seq., prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of real estate on certain enumerated bases. More... |
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| Whether to Rent or Buy a Home |
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| At some point, most individuals consider the issue of renting a home versus buying a home. It is a big decision with far-reaching financial implications. As part of the decision-making process, it may be helpful to use a rent/buy calculator (easily found on the Internet). Such a calculator will not, however, provide a clear answer. A consideration of other issues is necessary. More... |
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| Mortgagee Insurance |
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| Most residential real estate transactions involve a mortgagee. A mortgagee is the financial institution that loans the money to enable the homeowner to purchase the real estate. The mortgagee is a creditor of the homeowner. When the mortgagee lends the funds, it takes back a security interest in the real estate. As a secured creditor, the mortgagee is entitled to protect its interest in the real estate to the extent of the unpaid balance of the mortgage. More... |
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