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Outdated leases lead to confusion

By Helene Lesel, Thursday, May 18, 2006.

Q: I was recently given a lease to sign that seems outdated. What should a lease include these days in order to protect a tenant?

A: Leases, also known as rental agreements, are the vital link between your rights as a tenant and proof of rental circumstances.

While leases from the last century usually cover the basic nuts and bolts, newer leases should address newfangled inventions, such as remote controls, intercoms and security codes.  more...

10 questions to ensure good condo purchase

By Robert Bruss, Thursday, May 18, 2006.

Finally, we get to the all-important 10 key questions smart condo buyers should ask (but condo sellers hope their buyers don't ask):

1 – WHAT IS THE FINANCIAL CONDITION OF THE HOMEOWNER'S ASSOCIATION (HOA)? If you are a buyer seriously considering purchasing a specific condo unit, it's time to ask for and read copies of the latest HOA financial reports, minutes of the HOA meetings for the last six months, and a copy of the CC&Rs, by-laws and rules.  more...

'Life estate' could deny inheritor full possession of house

By Robert Bruss, Thursday, May 18, 2006.

DEAR BOB: After reading your articles about all the problems homeowners have when they add their heirs to their titles before death, I have decided not to add my daughter to my home's title. However, she will receive my home in my will. The house is in my name, but I live in it with my husband. He owns another house where he goes every day to smoke indoors and watch television. In my will, I provide a life estate in my house for my husband if I die first. Do you think this is a good idea? --Gayle T.

DEAR GAYLE: No.  more...