Top Real Estate Lawyers in Queens, NY

Queens, NY Real Estate FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Queens, New York?

  The non-emergency contact number for the New York Police Department 107th Precinct located at Parsons Blvd., Queens NY is (718) 969-5100.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Queens, New York?

  Incident reports in Queens are maintained by the NYPD Criminal Records Unit. To obtain a copy, you may submit your request online at https://a836-citypay.nyc.gov/citypay/NYPD_VCLP or mail it to 375 Pearl Street, Suite 4, 16th Floor New York, NY 10038. For requests sent through the mail, the form must be filled out in duplicate and a self-addressed stamped envelope must also be included.

• What kinds of disclosures are required for Queens real estate sellers?

  Under the New York Property Condition Disclosure Act implemented in Queens, property sellers are required to disclose known home defects to the buyers. This includes but is not limited to the property's age, utility surcharges, environmental risks and hazards, structural conditions, and mechanical system information. If this isn't done, the seller will be assessed a $500 fine at closing, payable to the buyer.

• What is the typical fee for retaining a Queens real estate lawyer?

  In Queens, the typical attorney fee ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 per transaction. Each real estate attorney will charge a different fee, depending on how complicated the transaction is. Additionally, those buying luxury new construction or properties with title problems may pay higher attorney fees compared to straightforward and cash transactions.

• What options do two people have for property ownership in Queens?

  In Queens, joint tenancy permits multiple property owners with proportionate ownership rights and a right of survivorship. Married couples can also be Tenants-by-the-Entirety, with each spouse having an undivided half of the property and the right to inherit upon the other's passing. Couples who live together but are not married and business partners may own equal or unequal shares of the property as tenants in common.

• Are Queens home sellers required to use a home inspector in order to abide by the PCDA?

  Queens sellers are required by New York real estate law to disclose any and all known housing defects, but they're not required to hire a home inspector. It is the buyer's responsibility to hire one when they conduct their due diligence in researching the home. The buyer should be reminded in the seller's disclosure documents that it is not a guarantee and is not intended to substitute for any of the inspections. 

• What are the closing costs for buying real estate in Queens?

  To close a property purchase in Queens, the fees that need to be settled include those for the mortgage title insurance, deed and mortgage recording, transfer taxes, bank, co-op transfer and financing, and departmental searches. Additionally, adjustments are calculated to allocate recurring expenses like property taxes and condominium common charges.