The real estate market today is somewhat tricky and can be overwhelming to many. Because of falling home prices, many are purchasing a new home for the first time. This means they are facing the procedure of selecting a home and closing on it, and may be finding that this is more complicated than they imagined.

Buying a home is a legal process, not a private one. There are many legal obligations that come with owning a home, and by purchasing it you're agreeing to take on those obligations. This means paying taxes, maintaining your property so that it's safe for others, and meeting your loan obligations as well. But what about the laws regarding the sale of the home in the first place?

Discrimination in Housing

It seems odd that there needs to be laws in place regarding discrimination in housing, but they are necessary. While some homeowners believe that since they own the home it is their right to decide to whom they will sell it, federal law states that you cannot discriminate against someone because of "race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women, and people securing custody of children under the age of 18), and handicap (disability)."

It's important for any homeowner with their home on the market to set aside what personal feelings they may have in order to be compliant with this law.

Legal Processes and Protections

Homes must be inspected before they are sold; a home inspector will check wiring, plumbing, and safety concerns such as these. Also, a title search is typically done as well. This is a check on the deed of the home in order to assure that the ones selling the home actually own it, and that there are no liens on the property.

There are many reasons for a homebuyer to consider having an attorney, not just a realtor, represent them during the entire process. Since a home may be the single most expensive item you purchase in your lifetime, and since it is a legal process, an attorney can assure you that everything is handled legally and in your best interests. This article should not replace legal advice from an attorney.

Visit www.WurtzelLaw.com for more information – Wurtzel Law of Long Island, NY