Real Estate & Property Ownership FAQ

Question 1

What if my co-owner or partner no longer agrees on what to do with the property?

Accepted Answer

When co-owners cannot agree whether to sell or divide property, a partition action can resolve it through sale or physical division. We negotiate first and, when needed, file court actions, often following divorce, inheritance, or partner disputes.

Question 2

How does adverse possession work?

Accepted Answer

Adverse possession allows someone who has openly and continuously used land for the statutory period to claim ownership. We evaluate the facts and pursue or defend quiet-title actions when appropriate.

Question 3

Can you clear title to inherited or family property?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We trace ownership through probate and deeds, correct old conveyances, and coordinate transfers through wills, trusts, or Family Limited Partnerships so property can be managed or passed on cleanly.

Question 4

What if there is a boundary, right-of-way, or easement problem?

Accepted Answer

We resolve boundary and access issues using surveys, negotiated agreements, or litigation, protecting both long-term use and property value.

Question 5

Do you handle sheriff sales, foreclosure purchases, and ejectments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We guide clients through sheriff sales, foreclosure confirmations, tax sales, and ejectment proceedings. We verify liens, redemption rights, and title status to restore or confirm lawful ownership and possession.

Question 6

What is a quiet-title action and when is it needed?

Accepted Answer

A quiet-title action is used when ownership is unclear or disputed, such as with missing heirs, conflicting deeds, boundary errors, or prior unpaid liens. It resolves competing claims and establishes clear title.

Question 7

How do partitions work between family members or business partners?

Accepted Answer

If owners cannot agree whether to keep or sell real property, Pennsylvania law allows a judicial partition. Courts may order a sale, division, or buyout. We pursue negotiated solutions first and litigate only when necessary.

Question 8

What happens if someone refuses to leave after a sheriff sale or foreclosure?

Accepted Answer

If an occupant refuses to leave after a sheriff sale or foreclosure, an ejectment or writ of possession may be required. We prepare the necessary filings, coordinate with the sheriff, and take the steps needed to secure lawful possession.

Question 9

How do I correct an old deed or fix a title defect?

Accepted Answer

We prepare corrective deeds, obtain supporting affidavits, and record updated instruments with the county to restore clean title. This prevents delays in refinancing, inheritance, or sale of the property.

Question 10

What is a 1031 exchange and when should I consider one?

Accepted Answer

A 1031 like-kind exchange allows real estate investors to defer capital-gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds from one investment property into another qualifying property. We advise on timing, identification rules, and IRS compliance to maximize reinvestment benefits.

Question 11

Do you help with leases and rental matters?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We draft and enforce leases, address breaches and occupancy disputes, and assist when landlord–tenant issues affect an estate administration or title transfer.

Question 12

What are my rights if a government or utility wants part of my land?

Accepted Answer

In eminent-domain or condemnation matters you are entitled to just compensation for the taking. We assess valuation, negotiate settlements, and litigate when necessary to pursue full market value and related damages.

Question 13

Can you help appeal a property tax assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We review assessment data, comparable properties, and appraisals, then file and present appeals to reduce inflated assessments and protect your property value.

Question 14

When should I form an LLC or Family Limited Partnership for real estate?

Accepted Answer

Forming an LLC or Family Limited Partnership can help limit liability, organize management, and plan inheritance. We handle entity formation and compliance in Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maine for individuals, families, and investors.

Question 15

Where can I look up local property records?

Accepted Answer

In Allegheny County, the Real Estate Search portal provides ownership, assessment, and tax data. We use these records to confirm title history and support due diligence for buyers, heirs, and investors.

Pittsburgh Real Estate & Property Ownership Attorneys

Strategic Real Estate Planning and Ownership Protection