Real property disputes can drain your finances and peace of mind faster than you think. Disputes in this regard most often spiral out of control and turn into court cases involving neighbors and the simplest disagreements. It does not matter at all whether you are dealing with boundary line conflicts, easement disputes, or title problems; the expenses will keep increasing very quickly. Understanding the most common disputes helps protect your investment and avoid costly lawsuits.
1. Boundary Line Disputes: When Property Lines Become Battle Lines
What is a real property boundary dispute? In these disputes, the boundaries are in dispute when each side tries to draw a line dividing the two properties. Such arguments frequently start with the survey of the land made long ago, vague deed descriptions, or the extension of one property toward the other.
Massachusetts courts require compelling evidence to resolve these issues. You have to provide up-to-date surveys, a record of property ownership, and proof of property use. If you don’t have the necessary paperwork, you might lose your land.
2. Easement Conflicts: Access Rights Gone Wrong
Easement disputes are one of the most expensive real property law conflicts. An easement is a right to use a part of another person’s land for specific purposes. Driveways, utility lines, and paths to unreachable places are common illustrations of easement uses.
Problems arise when easement holders exceed their rights. A neighbor might create a more expansive shared driveway than was agreed upon without getting the other party’s consent. Utility companies might, while taking care of their lines, disrupt your yard, and you might also have your use of your own property blocked by the easement holder.
In the state of Massachusetts, a period of 20 years of continuous use is required by law to confer prescriptive easements. Real property dispute cases involving easements require careful examination of the original agreements and usage patterns.
3. Adverse Possession Claims: Losing Your Land Through Neglect
Adverse possession permits an individual to claim ownership of property through continuous use. If a neighbor openly utilizes a portion of your property for the legal time period, they may acquire it by prescription.
Regular inspection of your property is one effective way to prevent such claims. Besides, it is essential to document any unauthorized use as soon as possible. Send written notices to anyone using your land without permission.
4. Title Defects: Hidden Real Estate & Property Disputes at Closing
Title issues include undisclosed liens, forged signatures, missing heirs, and recording errors. Many issues in real estate transactions are common, which lead to cancellations and financial losses for both the buyer and the seller.
Discovering title problems beforehand can save significant money. Order a title search before listing the property for sale. Any doubts should be cleared right away with a lawyer’s advice. During the purchasing process, review the documents thoroughly.
5. Co-Ownership Conflicts: When Shared Property Creates Problems
Property dispute resolution often requires partition actions. When co-owners cannot agree, courts may order the property sale, with the proceeds being shared, or let one owner buy out the others. These disputes often stem from disagreements over property use, maintenance costs, improvements, and the timing of a sale, creating significant stress and financial strain.
How Attorney Michelle J. Blair Can Help You Win
With more than 30 years of litigation experience in Massachusetts, Attorney Blair is a valuable asset to every case she handles. She understands that a property dispute lawyer must combine legal knowledge with strategic thinking.
Michelle handles boundary disputes, easement conflicts, adverse possession claims, title issues, and co-ownership problems. Her track record as a full-service firm speaks for itself. Hence, Michelle J. Blair Law Firm offers the experience and advocacy that you are looking for.
Take Action Now to Protect Your Property Rights
The loss of time worsens the problem and reduces the legal options available. No matter if a person is dealing with boundary disputes, easements, or title problems, the presence of a professional lawyer makes all the difference. Therefore, don’t let real property disputes escalate into financial disasters. Call (978) 443-3900 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. Put thirty years of litigation experience to work protecting your property and financial future.
