Real Estate & Closings Articles

New York does not generally require a lawyer for a home purchase, but attorneys are customary here; what a buyer’s attorney does and when to bring one in.

How the state transfer tax, the 1% mansion tax, New York City’s supplemental and transfer taxes, and the mortgage recording tax work, with rates as of October 2026.

Since March 20, 2024, sellers can no longer give a $500 credit instead of the disclosure statement; what the form requires, which transfers are exempt, and what it does not cover.

How co-op ownership works, how much deference courts give board decisions, and the New York City and Westchester timelines for acting on applications.

Scammers impersonate attorneys and title companies to redirect closing funds; how to verify wiring instructions and what to do right away if money goes to the wrong place.

Deed theft can now be prosecuted as grand larceny in New York; the warning signs, protective steps, and where to report a suspected fraudulent deed.

The federal identification and exchange periods, the three-property and 200% identification rules, and why the qualified intermediary matters. Tax questions belong with your tax adviser.

Personal guaranties, notices of default and cure, and why a commercial tenant generally must seek a Yellowstone injunction before the cure period runs out and the lease terminates.

New York’s LLC publication requirement, the narrowed LLC Transparency Act, and where federal beneficial ownership and FinCEN residential reporting stand in 2026.