Ilona Bray
J.D. · University of Washington School of Law
Neighbor's Tree Fell and Smashed Boundary Fence: What's Next?
The mere fact that a fallen tree belonged to your neighbor does not mean that the responsibility for resulting damage is also the neighbor's. ... READ MORE
Owning a Condo or Co-op: The Basics
Condominiums ("condos") and cooperatives ("co-ops") are forms of "common interest ownership" in real estate, but each has unique advantages and disadvantages. ... READ MORE
Homeowners' Rights and Duties in an HOA
When you own a home in a community that's managed by a homeowners' association (HOA), the HOA's rights and responsibilities as well as those of each homeowner will be governed by various written documents. ... READ MORE
Buying a Home or Property Together, as an Unmarried Couple
You feel sufficiently secure in your relationship to buy a home together; but what should you do to protect yourself legally? ... READ MORE
Buying and Selling a Home Using a Land Contract
What are the risks and benefits of buying and financing a home using a form of seller financing known as a land contract? ... READ MORE
Types of Deeds Used for Transferring or Selling Real Estate
A deed is a written instrument that transfers or conveys title to real property. Generally, the grantor, who is the owner or the person with a legal interest in the property, conveys his interest to the grantee, who is the person who acquires the interest in the property. ... READ MORE
Responding to an Offer to Purchase Your Home
When you're selling your home and a serious buyer shows up, the buyer will submit a written offer to purchase your home, sometimes called an "earnest money contract," "residential purchase agreement, or "sales contract." You won't have long to decide whether accept the offer or make a counteroffer. ... READ MORE
Understand Your Home Purchase Agreement Before You Sign
When you find a house you'd like to buy, you'll want to present the seller with an offer to purchase the home. Learn about what language your offer should include and what decisions you'll want to make first. ... READ MORE
Who Does a Real Estate Agent or Broker Represent?
If you're trying to buy or sell a home, you will likely seek help from a professional real estate agent or broker. It's not uncommon, however, for buyers (and less commonly, sellers) to work with an agent without asking a critical question: Who does the agent or broker really represent? ... READ MORE
Home Buying Basics in Texas
Essential information for finding and purchasing a house in the great state of Texas. ... READ MORE