Real Estate Laws in Queens: Statute Of Frauds Explained

Real Estate Laws For NY: Statute Of Frauds

One of the most important laws in real estate is the Statute of Frauds. In New York, the Statute of Frauds applies to all real estate transactions and has significant implications for buyers and sellers. This article will provide an overview of the Statute of Frauds and its impact on real estate transactions in New York State.

Understanding The Statute Of Frauds

The Statute of Frauds is a legal concept that requires certain types of contracts to be in writing and signed by the parties involved. The purpose of the Statute of Frauds is to prevent fraudulent activity and ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the terms of a contract. In New York, the Statute of Frauds applies to all real estate transactions, making it a crucial law for both buyers and sellers to understand.

What is covered by the Statute of Frauds?

The Statute of Fraud law applies to all contracts for the sale of real property, including deeds, mortgages, and leases. In order for a real estate contract to be enforceable in New York, it must be in writing and signed by the parties involved. Additionally, the contract must contain all essential terms and conditions of the agreement, including the purchase price, description of the property, and closing date.

What happens if a contract is not in writing?

If a real estate contract is not in writing and signed by the parties involved, it is not enforceable under the Statute of Frauds. This means that if a buyer or seller backs out of the deal, the other party cannot take legal action to force the sale. Similarly, if there is a dispute over the terms of the contract, it may be difficult to resolve without a written agreement.

What are some common issues with the Statute of Frauds in real estate?

One common issue that arises in real estate transactions is oral agreements. Even if the parties have verbally agreed to the terms of the sale, the contract is not enforceable under the Statute of Frauds without a written agreement. Additionally, the Statute of Frauds requires that all essential terms of the contract be included in the written agreement. If any key terms are missing or unclear, it may be difficult to enforce the contract. Another issue that can arise is the timing of the written agreement. In New York, the Statute of Frauds requires that the written contract be signed before the closing date. If the parties sign the agreement after the closing date, the contract may not be enforceable under the Statute of Frauds.

Conclusion

The Statute of Frauds is a crucial law in the world of real estate, and it’s important for both buyers and sellers to understand its implications. By ensuring that all contracts are in writing and signed by the parties involved, buyers and sellers can protect themselves and ensure that their transactions are legally enforceable.


Contributed With Help From Robert Aronov Esq – a Queens Based Real Estate Lawyer. 88-02 136th St, Queens, NY 11418 (718) 206-1555.

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