Brokers can avoid liability for such undisclosed environmental problems by recommending, in writing, that the buyers obtain an environmental inspection prior to purchase.

If you're not sure whether the information you're passing along to the buyer is accurate, you should let the buyer know that--in writing.

Coldwell Banker sues a California manager who jumped ship from an acquired brokerage, leading many of his former salespeople to a competing company. The case has implications for brokers with employment contracts.

As a property manager, remember that the Golden Rule still applies—even when the tenant isn’t paying rent. Don't gamble with potential liability. Repair all known defects that could cause injury. Any time and money spent in avoiding liability will pale in comparison with the aggravation and costs of litigation.

During the last four years, it has shaken up the residential real estate industry, fundamentally changing the way business is practiced. What has caused this upheaval? Revision of state laws applying to realty brokerage relationships.

Whether or not the broker can defeat the buyer's claim may depend on what is in the broker's transaction file. A refusal by the buyer to have an inspection performed should be followed with a written confirmation from you and a suggestion that the buyer reconsider.

If you know or suspect a seller's information is inaccurate, you could be liable. Buyers are entitled to rely on the accuracy of your statements. To avoid liability, you should avoid statements about matters in which you do not have first-hand knowledge.

A ruling on endangered species by the U.S. Supreme Court is seen as a victory for private property rights. The court decided that property owners have just as much right to sue the government for "over enforcement" of the federal Endangered Species Act as environmentalists have to sue for "underenforcement."

A legal battle is brewing in Jackson, Miss., over consumer rebates offered through real estate affinity programs. The outcome could influence affinity programs in other parts of the country.

The Counselors of Real Estate are once again defending against a challenge to the CRE® trademark. The case is against General Electric Capital Corp., which uses "CRE Net" on its Web site to provide users of the Internet with access to real estate-related information.

Two new developments now make it easier than ever for those involved in real estate transactions to deal with the issues raised by the potential presence of lead-based paint--issues that have received more attention recently because of the new federal lead-based paint disclosure law.

Prepaid legal service or legal expense insurance plans that provide businesses with access to legal services for a monthly fee are becoming more common, says Crain's Small Business.