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It’s too easy for the complex world of co-op ownership transfers to become a costly headache. Attorney Aaron Shmulewitz, partner at the law firm, Belkin Burden and Goldman, breaks down the three main types of co-op ownership and explains why shareholders increasingly want to transfer apartments into trusts and LLCs for estate planning benefits. In this interview, you'll discover how to handle messy divorce situations where spouses try to lock each other out, when building staff must enforce court orders, and how some transfer requests can lead to discrimination lawsuits.

Most importantly, learn about conditional consent agreements that can protect your co-op financially while still accommodating shareholders' estate-planning needs. Shmulewitz explains how boards can avoid legal pitfalls, which can help boards make informed decisions that protect both individual owners and the cooperative as a whole. Habitat's Carol Ott conducts the interview.

The business of running a building is demanding work that requires making endless decisions — some that can quickly lead your board into a quagmire of legal difficulties. Legal Talk interviews New York's leading co-op/condo attorneys to find solutions, and get some guidance, on these challenges. For more co-op and condo insights, sign up to receive Habitat's free newsletters or become a Habitat subscriber today!

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If you're facing a major renovation, some crucial information could save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches. Attorney Lisa Radetsky, partner at the law firm Phillips Nizer, reveals why standard construction contracts are stacked against building owners, and how New York's recent retainage law changes have made protecting your building even trickier.

Learn the hidden pitfalls of change orders that always increase costs, never decrease them, and learn why facade projects almost inevitably require expensive modifications. Radetsky explains the critical insurance requirements that most boards overlook, including New York's unique Scaffolding Law that makes building owners liable for contractor mistakes. She also shares practical strategies for keeping projects on schedule, from financial penalties to completion bonuses. Habitat's Emily Myers conducts the interview.

The business of running a building is demanding work that requires making endless decisions — some that can quickly lead your board into a quagmire of legal difficulties. Legal Talk interviews New York's leading co-op/condo attorneys to find solutions, and get some guidance, on these challenges. For more co-op and condo insights, sign up to receive Habitat's free newsletters or become a Habitat subscriber today!

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If you’re struggling with unit owners who aren't paying maintenance or common charges, you're not alone. Attorney Maria Beltrani, partner at Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg and Atlas, reveals game-changing pre-litigation strategies that can get you paid faster — and for less than going to court.

Discover how to legally redirect subtenant rent payments directly to your board, which can clear arrears in just months. Learn how to file liens and send copies to delinquent owners, plus how suspending amenities creates real pressure without major legal costs.

Beltrani also explains the circumstances under which co-op boards can successfully demand payment from unit owners' mortgage lenders, and why quick action is crucial before arrears become nearly impossible to collect. Whether you're dealing with your first delinquency or chronic non-payers, these proven tactics could save your building thousands in legal fees. Habitat’s Carol Ott conducts the interview.

The business of running a building is demanding work that requires making endless decisions — some that can quickly lead your board into a quagmire of legal difficulties. Legal Talk interviews New York's leading co-op/condo attorneys to find solutions, and get some guidance, on these challenges. For more co-op and condo insights, sign up to receive Habitat's free newsletters or become a Habitat subscriber today!