Frederick Condo and Co-op Lawyers

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Condominium and Cooperative Law in Maryland

Cooperatives and condominiums are examples of "common interest" communities.

These are residential areas with one or more buildings, each housing multiple residential units. The units are part of a larger building, which contains other residential units. In turn, there are several such buildings on the property. The units are rented or owned by the residents, but the building as a whole, and the land on which it sits, is owned either by a third party, or collectively by all the residents. The residents, in addition to mortgage or rent, typically have to pay a fee to cover maintenance of the common areas.

Simply looking at the physical structure of a condominium or cooperative community, it would be nearly impossible to tell which is which.

There are no physical features unique to either one, which can be used to distinguish them. Rather, the difference lies in the legal arrangement that regulates the relationships between the residents and managers. In condominium communities, the residents own the units they live in, and collectively own the land and buildings in which they are located. In a cooperative community, the units are rented, and are owned by a single entity.

Laws and Regulations Concerning Common Interest Communities in Frederick, Maryland

There are many laws in Frederick, Maryland that might be applicable to common interest communities. But most of these laws are not unique to common-interest communities. Rather, they usually concern zoning, land use, and contract law, which are applicable to most other types of real estate, as well.

The daily lives of residents, and what they are and aren't allowed to do in their residences, will be far more heavily impacted by rules and regulations that the homeowner's association, or the owner of the land, has imposed.

The land on which these communities sit is private property, so the owners have substantial leeway when it comes to setting rules regarding what tenants can and can't do on the property. These rules usually govern things like noise levels, cleanliness, long-term guests, and pets. They are often designed with the goal of balancing residents' rights to a clean and quiet neighborhood, with their individual autonomy.

The authority of landowners is limited, however, and there are some rules that cannot be given legal effect. For instance, in Frederick, Maryland, any rule which would exclude residents based on their race is completely unenforceable. Such discrimination is clearly prohibited under federal law, private property rights notwithstanding.

Can a Frederick, Maryland Attorney Help?

If you have problems with your landlord, your homeowners association, or a neighbor, a knowledgeable Frederick, Maryland real estate lawyer may prove invaluable.

Talk to a Real Estate Law Attorney now!

Life in Frederick

Frederick is located in Frederick County, Maryland. Specifically, it is in the central north of Maryland. Frederick is Maryland's largest county. Overall, the city has a population of around 65,239 people.

Frederick's largest employer is the U.S. Army's Fort Detrick. Next in line is BP Solar. Unfortunately, after March 2010, BP had to lay off many employees. Frederick is also home to a few attorneys that practice actively and do their best to tend to the legal needs of residents.

Some popular attractions include Cityscape, The Frederick Arts Council, and The Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET).

Famous past and present residents include Joe Alexander, Michael Beasley, Lester Bowie, Fred Carter, Chuck Foreman, David Gallaher, Sam Hinds MLB, Bradley Tyler Johnson, Charles Mathias, Florence Roberts, Winfield Scott Schley, and Bryan Voltaggio.

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