Best Real Estate Lawyers in Inglewood, CA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Inglewood, California?

  Individuals with non-emergency concerns can reach the Inglewood Police Department at 310-412-8771.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Inglewood, California?

  You can obtain a copy of a police report for an incident in Inglewood from the Records Division of the Inglewood Police Department. You may request by telephone at 310-412-5215, by mail, or in person at 1 West Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301, at the public counter. Requests pursuant to the California Public Records Act should be directed to the Inglewood City Clerk, located at City Hall, 1 Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90301.

• What are the parameters for rent increase in Inglewood?

  In Inglewood, City Ordinance No. 20-03 governs rent increases, setting a cap of 3% or CPI, whichever is higher, with CPI set from September to September. If the rent is below 80% of HUD-determined Fair Market Rental Values, an additional 5% increase is possible. For properties under State Law AB1482, the cap is 5% plus April-to-April CPI, not exceeding 10%. As of May 2020, the state cap was 5.7%.

• Which rental properties are subject to Inglewood's rent control?

  Inglewood's rent control applies to rental units built on or before February 1, 1995. Exceptions include hotels catering to tourists, units in nonprofit hospitals, religious or elderly facilities, university dormitories, affordable housing units, and owner-occupied residences renting out a single unit, provided the landlords meet specific criteria. Properties exempt from rent control must notify tenants in writing. Rental units in buildings with occupancy certificates issued within the last 15 years are also exempt.

• How does a partition action operate in Inglewood?

  In Inglewood, a partition action under Civil Procedure Code §872.210 enables co-owners to separate property ownership when there's disagreement or a desire to split investments. Ideally, a partition "in kind" physically divides the property. If impractical, a partition "by sale" forces the property's sale and divides the proceeds among co-owners. Given the complexity of partition actions in Inglewood, consulting an experienced real estate attorney is highly recommended.

• What remedies does a buyer have in Inglewood if a seller breaches a real estate contract?

  In Inglewood, when a seller breaches a real estate contract, a buyer can seek damages under Civ. Code §§ 3306 or 3300, contingent on their readiness and capability to pay the agreed price on the due date. The buyer can recover expenses for examining the title, preparation of paperwork, and the difference between the agreed and market price at the time of breach. Recovery can also be based on a valid liquidated damages provision in the contract.

• What information does a landlord in Inglewood typically require on a rental application?

  In Inglewood, a rental application often requires details of past and present employers, landlord references, criminal history, tax identification, and driver's license. However, applicants can provide a government-issued photo ID instead of a social security number or driver's license. Landlords must respect income sources and can't inquire about immigration status. While they may consider an applicant's criminal history, they can't use blanket bans or consider arrests without conviction, sealed convictions, or juvenile system convictions.

• What does a real estate attorney do?

  Real estate attorneys are responsible for preparing and reviewing transactional documents and helping clients with the closing process. They draft purchase agreements, perform title searches, write title insurance policies, disburse funds, and prepare federally mandated HUD-1 settlement statements. They can also help clients understand the tax implications of selling a home. In the case of a dispute between the buyer, seller, or a third party, real estate attorneys also defend clients in court. Even if there is no identifiable dispute over the transaction, an attorney will make sure everyone “plays by the rules” during the purchase or sale.

• Can I purchase property without a real estate attorney?

  In some cases, it’s possible to purchase residential or commercial real estate without consulting a real estate lawyer. However, legal representation is required in approximately 20 states, and some jurisdictions require a lawyer to be present at the closing. Usually, real estate attorneys take over once real estate agents have an offer in hand. Buyers are encouraged to consult an attorney when purchasing damaged or bank-owned property or real estate located in high-risk areas. Attorneys can also assist out-of-town buyers and negotiate favorable solutions if liens, structural issues, or legal challenges crop up during the procurement.

• What does a real estate attorney do for a buyer/seller?

  Real estate transactions may seem cut and dried, but it’s common for unforeseen difficulties to arise. Attorneys who represent buyers or sellers can facilitate a successful transaction while protecting their clients’ interests and preventing costly mistakes. On the buyer’s side, attorneys can provide advice related to financing, estate planning, tax law, and first-time home buyer credits. Real estate attorneys can also help sellers who are dealing with challenges due to liens, structural damage, probate disputes, or uncooperative partners.

• What’s the difference between real estate and property?

  Real estate includes land, permanent structures, and natural resources, such as water, minerals, and trees. Property typically describes personal items and belongings that aren’t permanently attached to land. The transfer of real property includes the bundle of legal rights, which give landowners the freedom to possess or occupy the property, enjoy their land without interference, restrict others’ access to the property, and dispose of their ownership rights as they see fit.

• What happens when a real estate lawyer puts a lien on you?

  In most cases, liens stay attached to the property until the debt is satisfied or the debtor files for bankruptcy. The creditor’s rights vary depending on whether the lien is voluntary or involuntary. Additionally, if a lien has been perfected, that lienholder has priority over other creditors. Voluntary liens are most common when homeowners use their property as collateral against a secured loan. Involuntary liens are typically related to back taxes, court judgments, and child support. Properties are also subject to involuntary mechanic’s or materialman’s liens in case a customer or contractor fails to pay for materials or labor. Liens don’t necessarily prevent someone from transferring property, but most buyers want a title that’s free and clear.

• What does a real estate lawyer do at closing?

  Lawyers perform critical functions during every stage of the closing process. They draft and review documents, negotiate contracts, and finalize all of the details needed to close the sale. Attorneys who represent buyers can negotiate the terms of sales contracts, including contingencies, perform title searches to ensure that the seller can legally transfer ownership, and resolve issues related to third-party claims, liens, and easements. They can also assist with loan paperwork, title insurance, and other financial matters, such as taxes and transfer fees. Real estate attorneys who represent sellers are responsible for handling deeds, insurance declarations, and payoff letters.

• Do I need a lawyer to sell my house privately?

  Not necessarily. Some states require a real estate attorney to be present at the closing, but there are some situations when you might consider hiring one even if it's optional where you live. Examples might include:

  • You're selling the house with an uncooperative partner
  • You've inherited a property from an owner who is now deceased
  • You anticipate tax consequences

• Can a real estate lawyer represent the buyer and seller?

  Generally speaking, no, because the seller and buyer have different priorities when it comes to a home sale, and some of those interests conflict. States have specific laws governing whether or not a real estate lawyer can represent the buyer and seller, and if this does happen, there's often a waiver that has to be signed by both parties acknowledging a conflict exists. States may have different names for a document like this, but it's usually called a Conflict Waiver. Acceptable exceptions for using the same real estate lawyer might include a property being transferred from one family member to another, such as a father to his son.

• How much does a closing attorney cost?

  Some states require a closing attorney, while others deem it optional. The cost of hiring a closing attorney varies widely by the state and law firm you choose. You can expect to pay between $2,500 and $3,000 for a simple buy/sell transaction, but keep in mind that this cost is likely to vary depending on your location and the complexities of the closing.

• Do you need a lawyer to sell land?

  Technically, no, you don't need a lawyer to sell land, but there are some situations when it might be a good idea. You might consider hiring an attorney if you are faced with existing boundary disputes, involved in a sale of land that's partially wetland, or in circumstances concerning tax issues. Specific laws related to land vary by state, but one potential issue is the tax rate, which can differ depending on whether the land can have structures built on it.

• What role does a real estate lawyer play in mortgages?

  Lawyers can assist buyers and sellers in transactions involving bank financing. They can review the fine print, any title insurance declarations, and the mortgage terms. A real estate attorney also will ensure that funds are distributed to the correct parties, especially if there are any outstanding mortgages or liens that need to be paid before the title transfer.