At FGKS Law, we provide comprehensive legal services and representation in all matters involving residential and commercial real estate. Our expertise encompasses transfers, leases, development, easements, land use restrictions, financing, annexation, zoning, title defect issues, mechanic’s liens, and foreclosure proceedings. Our affiliated title agency, Western Ohio Title Agency, works closely with our attorneys to conduct title searches, handle real estate closings, and issue title insurance commitments and policies, ensuring a seamless and efficient process for our clients.
Our Real Estate Development Services Include:
- Land Use, Development, Planning, and Zoning: Advising on all aspects of land use and development, including obtaining necessary permits, planning and zoning compliance, and addressing any disputes that arise.
- Litigation: Representing clients in real estate disputes, including boundary issues, easement disputes, and other litigation matters related to real estate development.
- Contract Review and Negotiation: Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts related to real estate transactions, ensuring that our clients’ interests are protected and that all agreements are legally sound.
Our Comprehensive Real Estate Services Include:
- Commercial Real Estate: Providing legal counsel and representation for the acquisition, development, leasing, and sale of commercial properties, including office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial properties.
- Lease Agreements: Drafting and negotiating lease agreements for both landlords and tenants, ensuring that all terms are clear and enforceable.
- Development: Assisting clients with the planning and execution of real estate development projects, from initial concept through completion, including obtaining necessary permits and approvals.
- Construction Contracts: Advising on and drafting construction contracts, ensuring that all terms and conditions are clearly defined and enforceable to protect our clients’ interests.
- Residential Real Estate: Representing clients in the purchase, sale, and leasing of residential properties, including single-family homes, multi-family units, and condominiums.
- Easements: Advising on the creation, modification, and enforcement of easements, ensuring that clients’ property rights are protected.
- Land Acquisition: Assisting clients in the acquisition of land for development or investment purposes, including due diligence, contract negotiation, and closing.
- Liens: Addressing issues related to mechanic’s liens and other encumbrances, including filing and defending against lien claims.
- Real Property Taxation: Advising on matters related to real property taxation, including tax assessments, appeals, and exemptions.
- Real Estate Financing: Assisting clients with securing financing for real estate transactions, including mortgage loans, construction loans, and refinancing.
- Zoning: Navigating zoning regulations and representing clients in zoning disputes, including variances, special use permits, and rezoning applications.
- Evictions: Representing landlords in eviction proceedings, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and protecting property rights.
- Foreclosures: Representing lenders and owners in foreclosure proceedings.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
At FGKS Law, we believe that successful real estate and development projects require a blend of legal acumen and practical insight. Our philosophy is to provide proactive and responsive legal counsel that anticipates challenges and seizes opportunities. We are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the intricacies of real estate law, ensuring their projects are completed smoothly and successfully.
Contact an attorney to learn more about our practice areas.
Frequently Asked Questions on Real Estate & Development
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO PROTECT A CONTRACTOR'S MECHANIC'S LIEN RIGHTS?
Protecting a contractor’s mechanic’s lien rights is crucial because it ensures that contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers are paid for their work and materials. A mechanic’s lien provides a legal claim against the property, which can be used as leverage to secure payment. Without protecting these rights, contractors risk not getting paid for their contributions to a project.
WHAT IS AN EASEMENT, AND HOW IS IT ENFORCED?
An easement is a legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose, such as accessing a driveway or utilities. Easements are typically granted through a deed or a written agreement and can be permanent or temporary. They are enforced by the courts, which can issue orders to prevent interference with the easement or to compel compliance with its terms.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR CHALLENGING REAL ESTATE VALUATIONS IN OHIO?
Challenging real estate valuations in Ohio involves filing a formal complaint with the county Board of Revision. The process typically includes gathering evidence to support your claim, such as recent property appraisals or comparable sales data, and presenting this evidence at a hearing. If you are not satisfied with the Board’s decision, you can appeal to the Ohio Board of Tax Appeals or the local court of common pleas.
WHY SHOULD ALL LEASES AND REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AGREEMENTS BE REVIEWED BY AN ATTORNEY?
Reviewing leases and real estate purchase agreements with an attorney is essential to ensure that all terms are clear, enforceable, and in your best interest. An attorney can identify potential issues, negotiate favorable terms, and protect your rights. This helps prevent future disputes and costly litigation, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.
WHAT IS ZONING, AND HOW DOES IT AFFECT HOW I CAN USE MY REAL ESTATE?
Zoning refers to the local laws and regulations that dictate how properties in specific geographic areas can be used. Zoning classifications, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural, determine the types of activities allowed on a property. Zoning can affect building height, density, setbacks, and land use. Understanding zoning regulations is crucial for property development, as non-compliance can result in fines, legal issues, or project delays.
HOW CAN FGKS LAW ASSIST WITH REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS?
FGKS Law provides comprehensive legal support for real estate development projects, including land acquisition, zoning compliance, contract negotiation, financing, and dispute resolution. Our attorneys work closely with developers, investors, and contractors to navigate the legal complexities of development projects, ensuring that your interests are protected and your projects are completed successfully.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A TITLE AGENCY IN REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS?
Using a title agency in real estate transactions ensures that the title to the property is clear of any liens, encumbrances, or legal issues. A title agency conducts thorough title searches, handles real estate closings, and issues title insurance policies to protect buyers and lenders from potential title defects. This provides peace of mind and security in your real estate transactions.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR OBTAINING A ZONING VARIANCE IN OHIO?
Obtaining a zoning variance in Ohio involves applying to the local zoning board or planning commission. The application must demonstrate that the variance is necessary due to unique circumstances and will not negatively impact the surrounding area. The process typically includes a public hearing where interested parties can voice their support or opposition. If approved, the variance allows you to use the property in a manner that deviates from the zoning regulations.
HOW CAN I RESOLVE A BOUNDARY DISPUTE WITH MY NEIGHBOR?
Resolving a boundary dispute with your neighbor can involve several steps, including reviewing property deeds, obtaining a professional land survey, and negotiating a settlement. If a resolution cannot be reached amicably, legal action may be necessary. FGKS Law can assist by providing legal advice, negotiating on your behalf, and representing you in court if needed.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN ENTERING A COMMERCIAL LEASE AGREEMENT?
When entering a commercial lease agreement, consider factors such as the lease term, rental rate, renewal options, maintenance responsibilities, and any restrictions on the use of the property. It is also important to understand the implications of any clauses related to subleasing, assignment, and termination. Having an attorney review the lease can help ensure that the terms are favorable and protect your interests.
At FGKS Law, we understand the complexities and challenges of real estate and development projects. Our goal is to provide clear, strategic legal advice that helps our clients achieve their objectives efficiently and effectively. Whether you are involved in a major development project, navigating zoning regulations, or addressing a real estate dispute, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process.
OUR REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT ATTORNEYS
