Unit 1056: Comprehensive Real Estate Law and Practice

1. Introduction to Real Estate Law

• Definition and scope of real estate law
• Importance in real estate transactions
• Sources of real estate law (statutes, case law, regulations)

2. Types of Real Estate Ownership

• Ownership in severalty
• Concurrent ownership
  • Joint tenancy
  • Tenancy in common
  • Tenancy by the entirety
• Community property
• Condominium and cooperative ownership

3. Real Estate Contracts

• Essential elements of a valid real estate contract
• Types of contracts (listing agreements, purchase agreements, option contracts)
• Contract formation and enforceability
• Breach of contracts and remedies

4. Real Estate Agency Relationships

• Definition of agency in real estate
• Types of agency relationships (buyer’s agent, seller’s agent, dual agency)
• Duties and responsibilities of agents
• Creation and termination of agency

5. Land Use Regulations

• Zoning laws and ordinances
• Building codes and permits
• Environmental regulations
• Eminent domain and property rights

6. Real Estate Financing

• Types of real estate financing (mortgages, deeds of trust, loans)
• Loan application and approval process
• Government loan programs
• Foreclosure process

7. Real Estate Disclosures and Inspections

• Required disclosures by sellers
• Material facts and latent defects
• Home inspections and appraisal processes
• Impact of disclosures on transactions

8. Real Estate Closing Process

• Steps in the closing process
• Role of escrow agents and title companies
• Closing documents (deeds, affidavits, settlement statements)
• Transfer of title and recording

9. Landlord-Tenant Law

• Lease agreements and types
• Rights and obligations of landlords and tenants
• Eviction process
• Security deposits and rent regulation

10. Real Estate Ethics and Professional Conduct

• Code of ethics for real estate professionals
• Fair housing laws and anti-discrimination
• Conflict of interest and disclosure
• Professional responsibilities and continuing education