Category Archives: Real Estate

Discussion concerning matters related to buying, selling, mortgaging real estate.

Do I need homeowners insurance if I’m buying a co-op or condo?

Posted on March 12, 2012 by George H. Dippel, Attorney at Law

Cooperative Apartment Corporations and Condominiums have “master” or “blanket” insurance policies insuring their buildings against fire and other hazards. But should you also have your own insurance policy? You definitely should! The blanket or master policy does not cover your … Continue reading →

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My Spouse recently passed away. Do I need to change my deed? What if we owned a cooperative apartment? Must I change my stock certificate?

Posted on March 6, 2012 by George H. Dippel, Attorney at Law

When married couples purchase real property in New York State, such as a one-family home or condominium unit, they own it as “tenants-by-the-entirety.” The law provides that when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse is, by operation of law, the … Continue reading →

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How can I reduce my closing costs when refinancing my mortgage in New York?

Posted on March 1, 2012 by George H. Dippel, Attorney at Law

When buying a home in New York State and especially in New York City, mortgage tax can often be the single largest component of your closing costs. For example, the mortgage tax in New York City for a mortgage, under … Continue reading →

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I’ve made an offer on a house but the broker has told me it involves a “short sale.” How does that affect me as a buyer?

Posted on February 12, 2012 by George H. Dippel, Attorney at Law

Short Sales have become more common as more and more homeowners find themselves “Under Water,” meaning that they owe more on their mortgage than their home is worth.  Normally, a homeowner Under Water would not be able to sell their … Continue reading →

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