Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C FindLaw IM Template 2026-04-29T15:40:06Z https://blog.lslaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[New year, new business steps for 2026 in Pennsylvania]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49243 2026-04-29T15:40:06Z 2026-04-29T15:40:06Z Starting a business in Pennsylvania can be an exciting journey as you look toward 2026. As you shape your idea, focusing on early legal steps may help you build a stable foundation and help you aim to avoid common setbacks along the way.

Selecting a business structure

One of your first decisions typically involves selecting a business structure. In Pennsylvania, you might consider options such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Title 15 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes generally governs these entities. Each structure can influence how you manage taxes, personal liability and control. For instance, an LLC is often used to help separate personal assets from business obligations. Conversely, a sole proprietorship is often straightforward to start, but it generally offers no legal separation between your personal assets and the business’s debts.

Registering with the state

Once you have chosen a structure, the next step usually involves registration with the Pennsylvania Department of State. This process helps establish your business as an official entity within the state’s records. Before you file, you may want to prepare the following:
  • A business name that complies with Pennsylvania’s naming requirements
  • A registered office address or a contract with a Commercial Registered Office Provider (CROP)
  • Details regarding the ownership or management of the entity
If you plan to operate under a name other than your formal entity name, you may also need to file a fictitious name registration under Pennsylvania’s "Fictitious Names Act."

Managing new reporting requirements

A significant change for Pennsylvania business owners in 2026 involves the shift toward annual reporting. Under recent state law updates, most registered businesses are now required to file an annual report to keep their information current with the Department of State. For many businesses, the first of these reports is due by June 30, 2026. Keeping track of this deadline may help you maintain your business’s "good standing" and help you avoid potential administrative penalties or dissolution.

Securing permits and documents

After your initial registration, you might turn your attention to internal documents and local requirements. These steps can help clarify roles and may reduce the likelihood of confusion in the future. You may want to consider:
  • Drafting an operating agreement or bylaws to outline how decisions are made.
  • Preparing standard contracts for clients, vendors or service providers.
  • Researching local and industry-specific permits based on your specific field.
Because state or local agencies often set their own licensing rules, reviewing these requirements early in the year can help you plan for a smoother launch.

Building a compliant foundation

As you move through these steps, you may find that each choice helps reinforce the others. Careful planning at the start of 2026 often helps you stay aligned with Pennsylvania’s evolving rules and your own long-term goals in building your business. Call (610) 397-1820 to schedule an appointment with the experienced business organization team at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"], to discuss forming your company and starting your business. ]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[How does title insurance protect commercial real estate transactions?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49234 2026-02-18T18:27:43Z 2026-02-18T18:27:43Z Commercial real estate transitions involve high stakes and complex ownership histories. Unlike residential purchases and sales, these transactions often include intricate land use issues and significant financial investments. Title insurance acts as a vital safety net for buyers and lenders. It shields your investment from hidden risks that a standard record search might miss. This coverage ensures that you own the property clear of unexpected burdens or legal challenges. Common issues which title insurance covers include easements, liens, municipal assessments, judgments, roll-back taxes, violations of covenants and forged documents. If enhanced coverage is purchased, protection can be obtained that will include boundary disputes and some inflation protection.

Identification of Undisclosed Liens

Title searches can reveal unpaid taxes, utility bills, municipal liens or assessments, judgments and contractor claims against a property. These liens attach to the land as well as the previous owner. Title insurance protects you from paying someone else’s old debts. If a creditor appears after the closing, the insurance policy handles the financial obligation. This keeps your capital safe and prevents interruptions to your business operations.

Defense Against Boundary and Easement Disputes

Commercial properties frequently share access points or utility lines with neighbors. An old easement or an inaccurate survey can trigger a costly legal battle over land use. Title insurance covers the legal fees if a neighbor challenges your property boundaries if enhanced coverage is purchased. It also compensates you for the loss of land value if a valid easement restricts your planned construction or expansion.

Protection from Fraud and Forgery

Sophisticated fraud remains a constant threat in high-value real estate markets. Criminals sometimes forge deeds or use stolen identities to sell property they do not own. Title insurance verifies the legitimacy of the transfer. If a secret heir or a victim of identity theft claims ownership later, the policy defends your title. This protection offers peace of mind in an increasingly digital and risky market.

Securing Your Commercial Investment

A single oversight in a deed or a missed filing can ruin a multi-million dollar project. Experienced professionals spot these red flags before they become permanent problems. A skilled attorney can guide you through the closing process to ensure every document meets state standards. This careful attention to detail protects your business from expensive legal battles and preserves the value of your land. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] to schedule an appointment with the experienced real estate team at Max L. Lieberman & Associates to discuss your commercial real estate transactions. ]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[Pre-planning can prevent common real estate joint ownership disputes]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49197 2024-09-04T19:40:36Z 2024-09-04T19:40:36Z Disputes owners commonly face Partnerships can face challenges whether the dispute is business, personal or a blend of both. Each situation is unique, but we often help clients with variations on any or several of the following issues:
  1. Differing financial goals and needs: The owners may have different financial goals and needs. For instance, one partner might urgently need liquidity and push for a quick sale, while another might prefer to wait for a better market condition to maximize profit.
  2. Emotional attachments: In the case of family-owned properties, emotional attachments can complicate the decision-making process. A family member might have sentimental value attached to a property, making them reluctant to sell, while others might view the property as an asset to liquidate.
  3. Unequal contributions and perceived fairness: Disputes can also arise from perceptions of unequal contributions. One partner or family member might feel they have invested more time, effort or money into the property and therefore deserve a larger share of the proceeds.
  4. Legal and tax implications: The sale of jointly owned property can have complex legal and tax implications. Disagreements can arise over handling these issues, especially if there is a lack of clear communication or understanding of the legalities involved. For example, disputes might occur over who is responsible for paying capital gains tax or how to handle any outstanding debts associated with the property.
  5. Decision-making authority: Joint ownership often requires unanimous consent for significant decisions, including property sales. If one party is uncooperative or has differing opinions, it can stall the sale process.
  6. Market conditions: Disagreements can also stem from differing opinions on current and future market conditions.
  7. Communication breakdown: Effective communication is critical to resolving disputes, but things can break down due to misunderstandings, lack of transparency and poor communication.

Guidance for avoiding or resolving these issues

Clear communication, binding legal agreements, defined exit strategies, and understanding each party’s needs and expectations can help mitigate these issues. An experienced real estate law attorney can be a significant asset when ownership groups contemplate a real estate sale. Along with drafting comprehensive ownership agreements and negotiating a sale, they can help mediate or facilitate communication among owners. Those with concerns about ownership disputes can call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] to schedule an appointment with the experienced real estate team at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"]]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[Does A Covid-Mandated Closure Frustrate The Purpose Of A Commercial Lease?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49200 2024-08-23T16:00:57Z 2024-08-23T16:00:57Z On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[What is the difference between real property easements and licenses?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49193 2024-07-25T16:32:42Z 2024-07-25T16:32:42Z Licenses are personal, non-transferable, and do not create a lasting interest in the property. They can be revoked at any time by the landowner and typically terminated after fulfilling their purpose.

How easements work

Easements often benefit individuals or the general public. For example, a utility easement allows a utility provider to install and maintain infrastructure, ensuring the property owner receives essential services like electricity, water, or telecommunications. They can be created to outline legal rights and protections for each party, including:
  1. Deed reservation: When a property owner sells a portion of their land but reserves an easement for themselves.
  2. Agreement: Through mutual consent between the landowner and the party seeking the easement.
  3. Prescription: Similar to adverse possession, where continuous and open use of the land for a statutory period creates an easement.
  4.  Necessity: When an easement is essential for accessing a landlocked property.
  5. Eminent domain: When the government or a utility company takes private land for public use.

Types of easements

There are primarily two types of easements:
  1. In Gross: Benefits a person or entity rather than a piece of land—for example, a utility company’s right to run power lines across private property.
  2. Appurtenant: Benefits a specific piece of land (known as a dominant tenement) and burdens another piece of land (the servient tenement).

The duration and termination of easements

Easements are typically perpetual unless the agreement specifies a fixed term. They are often terminated for one of the following reasons:
  1. Expiration: The easement ends after a specific period or fulfilling its purpose.
  2. Agreement: The involved parties mutually agree to terminate the easement.
  3. Abandonment: The easement holder stops using the easement and shows intent to abandon it.

Licenses work differently

A license is a permissive right granted by a property owner to another party to use their land for a specific purpose. Notable characteristics of a license include:
  1. Personal nature: A license is not transferable and personal to the person or group of persons granted it.
  2. Creation by agreement: It can be established through express agreements (written or spoken) or implied through conduct.
  3. Revocability: The property owner can revoke it at any time and generally terminates when it is no longer needed or when it fulfills its purpose.

Each has its purpose

Understanding the differences between a license and an easement is essential for anyone studying their property rights and protections. Both concepts play crucial roles in managing land use and ensuring that property owners and users can protect their rights while coexisting and benefiting from the land’s resources. Those with questions  about easements or licenses can reach out to the attorneys at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] for assistance.]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[What are examples of nonrecurring and recurring closing costs?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49187 2024-05-15T20:45:52Z 2024-05-15T20:45:52Z Non-recurring costs are one-time expenses Most of the charges included on someone's settlement statements are one-time or non-recurring closing expenses. Title companies typically charge a fee for the use of their facilities or for coming to a different location, which would be a one-time cost. The premiums paid for title insurance are also non-recurring closing costs. Those with a mortgage often need to pay for two policies, a mortgagee policy and an owner’s policy.  Costs paid by buyers at closing further include attorney fees, transfer taxes and recording fees.   There are also costs associated with Inspections, appraisals and surveys which are only necessary prior to closing.  Sometimes buyers pay a portion of the real estate commissions, a practice that may become more prevalent in the future.  Therefore, these expenses are non-recurring costs.

Recurring closing costs are ongoing responsibilities

A handful of the costs included on a settlement statement are recurring expenses. These costs continue to accrue or arise even after someone assumes possession of their new home. A buyer may need to pre-pay interest as part of their mortgage agreement, and to reimburse the sellers for pre-paid taxes.  People often need to make a lump-sum deposit into an escrow account to help cover homeowner's insurance and property tax expenses via their mortgage payments. Another recurring cost would be private mortgage insurance premiums which increase the monthly mortgage payment and may factor into how much people can comfortably offer for a residential property.  Condominium or homeowner association fees, if applicable, are also among the recurring costs that buyers should expect to pay. Buyers must be provided with an estimate of these costs early on, and also prior to closing. Closing costs require careful planning, as they can exceed what people have set aside in savings in some cases. Buyers who understand the expenses involved in residential real estate transactions may feel comfortable making offers and evaluating their closing costs. Learning about recurring and non-recurring closing costs can help people better evaluate a prospective real estate transaction. Reach out to the team at Max L. Lieberman & Associates P.C. for support at 610-936-6612 when preparing for a real estate transaction.]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[What does the Corporate Transparency Act require?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49179 2024-03-11T15:16:55Z 2024-03-11T15:14:13Z How certain businesses must comply with the CTA Corporate businesses and similar company structures can hide the reality of people who have an interest in a business. Therefore, one person with an interest in multiple companies could potentially launder money or obfuscate the true origins of ill-gotten capital. There are many ways that individuals with a leadership or ownership interest in multiple companies could abuse that authority. The CTA aims to curtail such misconduct. Under the CTA, any business entity which required a filing with the Corporation Bureau of the Pennsylvania Department of State (or similar bureau of any other state) is required to complete the FinCen registration and file a Beneficial Ownership information form (BOI). If you formed an entity during the 2024 calendar year, you have 90 days to complete the registration. If you formed the entity before 2024, then you must file by no later than December 31, 2024. The filing requires the disclosure of personal identifying information of those with a beneficial ownership interest in the company. The CTA defines that as a 25% or greater stake in the company. Once the initial report is filed, the information must be updated within 30 days of any subsequent event that makes the previously reported information inaccurate. The law also requires that corporations and other complex business structures report the names of individuals who filed the paperwork to form the company. Businesses even need to identify those who instructed the individuals who filed the paperwork to form the company in certain cases.

There are entities which are exempt from the CTA How the CTA

Some categories of business entities are exempted from CTA compliance. These generally include regulated business entities such as publicly traded companies, insurance and banking businesses and companies with over $5 Million in revenue and more than 20 employees. Many non-profit entities are also exempt from the BOI requirements of the CTA. There is no cost for the required registration but entities that do not make the necessary disclosures could face consequences including fines of $500/day up to a maximum of $10,000. A knowing violation can also lead to up to two years of jail time. If you need guidance or have any questions, reaching out to [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] can help to ensure compliance with the CTA and other key laws.]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[The role of an environmental assessment in commercial real estate matters]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49175 2024-01-04T19:06:56Z 2023-12-28T17:24:33Z Identifying contamination or hazardous materials An environmental assessment is essential for identifying potential contamination or hazardous materials on the site. This includes asbestos, lead, radon or other hazardous waste, which can lead to costly remediation efforts. Discovering such issues early in any particular process allows for informed decision-making, potentially saving investors and owners from unexpected expenses and legal complications. These assessments aren't just about identifying current issues but also about understanding the historical uses of the property. Past industrial or commercial activities might have left behind a legacy of contamination that could be unknown to current or prospective owners. An environmental assessment helps unearth such historical concerns, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of the property's condition and value.

Regulatory compliance points

Another critical concern is compliance with environmental regulations. Various laws and regulations govern the use and development of commercial properties, including those related to environmental protection. An environmental assessment lends assurance that the property complies with these regulations, reducing the risk of legal penalties, fines or forced remediation activities imposed by environmental authorities.

Information about financial considerations

The role of environmental assessment extends to financial concerns as well. Environmental issues can significantly impact the value of a property. Contamination or non-compliance with environmental standards can lead to decreased property values and increased insurance costs, or even render a property unsellable or unfinanceable. Lenders often require environmental assessments to manage risk before financing commercial real estate transactions. Understanding what this entails for a specific property and determining how to manage the results of the report are critical concerns in virtually any major commercial real estate transaction. Reach out to the attorneys at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] for assistance regarding an environmental assessment.]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[How might zoning regulations violate your land ownership rights?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49172 2023-11-07T16:53:52Z 2023-11-07T16:53:52Z state or municipality may impose restrictions on land use that will affect someone's utilization of the property or their ability to sell it for a reasonable price. For example, commercial zoning laws can impact the type of buildings allowed, boundary lines, and parking requirements. Examples of residential zoning laws can dictate the types and number of residential units, the height of the unit, and how far from the property line the home can be built. The following are some of the ways that zoning may influence someone's rights as a property owner.

Their use could become inappropriate

When local municipalities impose zoning regulations or update existing zoning rules, those changes can have a direct impact on how people are able to make use of their property. A building that was previously compliant with the law might now be too close to the road or to a boundary line.  Or a use that was once permitted could suddenly become unlawful. That could result in an order to tear down an improvement, which would substantially reduce the value of the land or affect someone's ability to use it as they see fit. Changes in zoning could also force someone to go to court to obtain a variance that will allow them to continue using the property as they previously had. Seeking a zoning variance can be both time-consuming and expensive.

Their profit upon sale may decrease

A residential property in an area rezoned for commercial or industrial use may be eligible for a variance for as long as the current owner lives there. However, when they want to sell the property, they may not be able to charge a reasonable amount because the buyer could be reluctant to live in a commercial or industrial area.  Therefore, significant changes to zoning rules can impact how profitable the sale of real property will be when an owner wants to move. In theory, state or local law should not infringe on the rights of individual property owners, but in practice, zoning regulations can often have a chilling effect on an individual's rights and on the financial benefits that they derive from property ownership.  On the other hand, zoning can also enhance property values by preserving neighborhoods and prohibiting undesirable uses of property.  Taking the appropriate legal steps to respond to proposed zoning changes or recently implemented changes can help preserve someone's rights and their investment in real property. Reaching out to the team at [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"]. at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"] can help people more effectively address a possible or recent zoning change that affects their property rights.]]> On Behalf of Max L. Lieberman & Associates, P.C. <![CDATA[What is a hard money loan?]]> https://blog.lslaw.com/?p=49048 2023-09-19T15:48:23Z 2023-09-19T15:48:23Z How it works Hard money loans are often used for commercial or investment properties. Borrowers may turn to this option if their regular bank or lender denies the loan or creates too many hurdles before approving it. Some business opportunities can't wait for the laborious approval process of traditional loans. There is more risk for the lender, which means higher loan rates. Also, the repayment is usually due in a very short time – often less than a year, as opposed to a longer term conventional commercial loan.

Why use one?

There are various reasons why borrowers consider this type of loan. Banks are conservative by nature or may not see the merit of a unique property as an investment opportunity. Hard money short-term loans also work for businesses flipping properties since the borrower has no intention of holding onto the property they intend to purchase.

Lenders may need to foreclose

Hard money lenders are typically private investors who do not need to follow the same credit approval rules as traditional lenders. Still, hard money loans are secured loans, which enable the lender to take possession of the collateral to recoup the money lent to the borrower. Because of the risk, it is important that the loan documents contain every possible protection for the lender. Lenders in eastern Pennsylvania interested in making or collecting a hard money loan debt can contact [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1 LEGAL"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1 LOCAL"].]]>