Real Estate

Learn the important terms and documents that renters and buyers alike need to understand.

The importance of rent receipts for landlords and tenants
Although not required in all states, rent receipts are useful for both landlords and tenants. Learn what information to include in this important document—and how it might help with your taxes.
January 8, 2024 · 3 min read
Understanding the eviction process and the unlawful detainer
Unlawful detainers are eviction proceedings against tenants who have failed to pay rent or have violated their lease. How to bring or defend an unlawful detainer is something both landlords and tenants should know. Find out more about this process.
January 8, 2024 · 5 min read
Serving your tenant a notice to pay rent or quit
As a landlord, you'll sometimes have tenants who breach their lease by failing to pay rent. Find out your first steps in starting an eviction proceeding against a habitually nonpaying tenant.
January 5, 2024 · 4 min read
Understanding your lien release
When the time comes to get a lien released, it's important to be sure that the lien release form is appropriate to the situation, and that it complies with state law.
December 13, 2023 · 3 min read
Sublease vs. room rental: Which one is right for your property?
Want to make money for the mortgage by renting out your spare room? Or, if you rent, you may be able to sublet or assign your lease to someone else. Learn the differences among renting, subleasing, and assigning to decide which is right for you.
December 13, 2023 · 5 min read
Before you sublease, be sure to get a landlord consent to assignment
Need to sublease your rented apartment? Here's why you should obtain your landlord's consent first.
December 13, 2023 · 2 min read
Show your purchase power with earnest money
Having sufficient earnest money for major purchases of real estate or personal property will enhance your purchasing power. Learn how earnest money works, and about promissory notes used as earnest money.
December 12, 2023 · 3 min read
Verify your tenant's ability to pay with an employment verification form
Found a potential tenant who seems like a perfect fit for your rental property? Learn more about why you should verify the employment and income of your rental applicants using an employment and salary verification form.
December 7, 2023 · 3 min read
What is a quitclaim deed, and when to use a quitclaim deed?
A quitclaim deed is a fast way to transfer ownership of property, but there are specific occasions where a quitclaim deed is warranted because it offers no protection for the buyer.
December 6, 2023 · 7 min read
Landlord consent and sublet agreements
The best subletting situations occur when the landlord, tenant, and subtenant are all on the same page. Here is some information on how everyone can get there via the proper legal forms.
December 6, 2023 · 2 min read