What is Real Estate Law?

The area of law referred to as “Real Estate Law” deals principally with the possession, use, sale, and development of real property. The law of real property encompasses anything permanently affixed to land, such as buildings, fences, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, or other items that would be personal property if not attached. Such attached personal property is referred to as a “fixture.” Real estate transactions are governed by a large number of local, state, and federal ordinances, statutes, and regulations. The laws pertaining to the possession, use, sale and development of real property can differ drastically from state to state. Such differences in state laws are most commonly reflected in the characterization of real property as "community" or "separate property" in connection with the dissolution of marriage. ... more