Best Real Estate Lawyers Erie, PA

Erie, PA Real Estate FAQs

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

  The Erie Police Department can be reached at (814) 870-1125 for non-emergencies.

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

  You can request a copy of a police report, by submitting a completed Right to Know Request Form to the Erie Police Department’s Right to Know Officer. You can submit it in person at Room 111 of the police station located at 626 State St., Erie, PA 16501. The Officer accepts requests from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. You can also mail it to the same address.

• Are you required to have a real estate attorney to purchase a property in Erie?

  It’s not a legal requirement to be represented by a real estate attorney during a sale. However, it is recommended to protect your interests as the transactions and documents involved are complex. Your Erie real estate attorney can review these for you to ensure the purchase contract is in your best interest. A certified attorney can also conduct a title search to spot defects, such as unpaid mortgages, liens, and ownership inaccuracies that may cause you issues in the future.

• Do you really have to purchase a title insurance policy for a real estate sale in Erie?

  Mortgage lenders in Erie require prospective buyers to purchase a title insurance to secure financing. The insurance policy is intended to safeguard the property owner's and mortgage lender's interests against damages caused by title defects, such as unpaid mortgages and real estate tax liens, and other issues incurred by the previous owner. Compared to other insurance policies, the title insurance is inexpensive as there are no monthly premiums to pay and the policy lasts throughout your ownership of the property.

• Is the buyer required to be present during the closing transaction in Erie?

  If your real estate purchase in Erie is being financed by a bank or mortgage lender, your presence during closing will most probably be necessary. If not, an authorized representative, such as your own real estate attorney, can attend the closing on your behalf to sign the documents. If your lender or attorney advises that your presence is not required, you can pre-sign the closing documents and deliver them before the closing day.

• Why is a contingency clause important in a real estate purchase agreement in Erie?

  The contingency provision in an Erie sale agreement specifies that a certain event or requirement must be satisfied or the agreement will be voided. Common provisions used are home inspection, mortgage, and pest inspection contingencies. Contingency provisions protect both the buyer and seller. If the buyer fails to secure a mortgage within a specified deadline (mortgage contingency) or if there are property defects discovered (home inspection contingency), the agreement can be terminated and the deposit returned to the prospective buyer.

• How long does a lien remain on your property’s county record in Erie?

  Real estate liens in Erie will be on your property’s country record for five years. It is effective even if the property changes ownership unless the debt is settled or the lien expires after five years. It sir advised that you seek counsel from a real estate attorney to resolve a lien on your property or remove a lien on a property that you are planning to buy.