A major concern for any transaction or real estate contract negotiation is the survival period for the representations and warranties. In simple words, how long will those promises be enforceable? For real estate buyers and sellers, the survival period – how long that promise is upheld – can impact each party differently.

Eminent domain is the right of government entities to seize private property for public use, with fair compensation. It’s a powerful tool offered to federal, state and local governments, including government agents like Sound Transit. Eminent domain is a worry for current residents and business owners in West Seattle, Northgate, the International District and Lynwood, where the path of future light rail projects are at various stages of planning and development.

Any landlord delivering an eviction notice to a tenant must follow the procedures to the letter of the law. The delivery of eviction documentation must be clear, traceable and extensive. Any slip, or lack of clarity in the proper delivery of eviction notices, could see the landlord’s eviction request kicked out of court. Such failures occur at a surprising rate. 

The attorneys at Holmquist + Gardiner have extensive experience supporting landlord-tenant legal issues. We routinely provide guidance to landlords of multi-family and commercial properties who seek the eviction of a tenant in breach of…

The last thing a homebuyer wants is to emotionally commit to purchasing a home and then lose it. Similarly, no seller wants to select a buyer, only to see the home sale fall apart. Everybody made plans. Suddenly, both parties have to start over. When the sale falls through, both buyer and seller can feel an emotional attachment to the initial earnest money deposit. That’s when earnest money disputes arise.

Sales fall through for unexpected reasons. Sometimes it’s an unforseen life event, cold feet or a sudden change in finances. Earnest money disputes seek to determine whether the buyer or the seller deserves to retain the original monetary deposit. If you’re a potential buyer or seller, it’s a good idea to understand a few concepts about earnest money to help reduce the possibility of a bitter trip to the courtroom. 

There’s big news this summer for residential real estate developers, sales agents and future buyers of condominium properties in Seattle. Washington state’s updated condo act, known as SB 5334, became effective law on July 28, 2019. The new legislation eases regulations on condominium defect liabilities for residential condominium developers and management companies. That means exciting prospects for the condominium market in the city of Seattle. SB 5334 reduces concerns of risk and uncertainty that previously plagued condominium investments across Washington state. 

The experienced attorneys at Holmquist + Gardiner support clients involved in all phases of the construction process including property developers, contractors, architects, engineers, management firms and individual tenants. We assist our clients with diverse issues specific to Seattle and Washington state laws and regulations. SB 5334 represents a transformative moment in…

The federal Opportunity Zone program offers significant tax incentives to taxpayers who invest in land-use, business or real-estate projects within specified low-income and underserved communities. Investors with the right strategy and long-term investment goals can take advantage of this program to reduce, or event eliminate, their capital gains taxes. 

As a real-estate attorney with Holmquist + Gardiner, I specialize in transactions involving mixed-use development properties and tax-deferred investment strategies, including Opportunity Zone investments. I help clients mitigate risks and successfully take advantage of incentives.