Be sure your chosen location allows your type of business. Legally speaking, it's far less important whether a certain spot is a good one for your business than if it's properly zoned for what you plan to do. The first thing to remember is that you should never sign a lease for a business

Answers to your questions about noisy neighbors. What's Below: Are noisy neighbors breaking the law? How should I approach my neighbor about a noise problem? Can I sue a noisy neighbor? Isn't my landlord supposed to keep noisy tenants quiet? My neighbor's dog barks all the time, and it's driving me crazy. What can

How to reduce costs and risks when buying a new house. There's something appealing about a brand new house -- you get to pick out the carpet, drapes, and appliances, and have everything designed just the way you want it. New houses often come with more space and better appliances, require less immediate fix-up

Negotiating a good lease can save you money. Learn where landlords are willing to make concessions. When you get serious about an available business space, chances are you'll be presented with a typed or printed commercial lease prepared by the landlord or the landlord's lawyer. As you read the lease, keep these points in

Find the best loan option for you, plus tips on how to afford a mortgage and down payment. What's Below: Where should I shop for home loans or mortgages? What are low down payment options, for buyers who can't afford a 20% down payment? What is private mortgage insurance (PMI)? Can I tap into

Before you finalize your house purchase, be sure the house is in good condition. The best way is to have a professional inspection. Inspecting the physical condition of a house is an important part of the home-buying process, and should be a condition of closing the sale. One or more professional inspectors should look

Get the basics on homeowners' insurance and the importance of doing a home inventory. Before finalizing a mortgage loan, lenders require homebuyers to purchase at least a minimal level of "hazard insurance," which is part of the standard homeowners' insurance policy. Hazard insurance will cover damage or destruction by fire, smoke, wind, hail, theft,

When you buy a house in a new subdivision or planned unit development, you may be subject to a host of rules and regulations. When you buy a home in a new subdivision, common interest development (CID), planned unit development (PUD), or co-op, chances are good that you also automatically become a member of

Answers to commonly asked questions about choosing and registering a successful business name. What's Below: Should I rent or buy space for my business? How do I pick a location for my business? What is a commercial lease? Are commercial lease terms negotiable? How do I determine if the location I want is properly

Do good fences really make good neighbors? These frequently asked questions may help you decide. What's Below: How high can I build a fence on my property? My neighbor is building a fence that violates the local fence law, but nothing's happening. How can I get the law enforced? My neighbor's fence is hideous.