Purchase of condemned homes

Raynah
Contributions:2

I bought a condemned home from the city, and now I am stuck with it. The city didn't tell me that the house was condemned,nor did they tell me that it was going to be demolished. I went to the city to request from them to take the house back because it is unrepairable and unlivable, (the house is only 860sq ft.) but the city refused, they said it is my house and my responsibility. I ask if anyone can give me some advice in what to do, I can't afford an attorney and I don't know what my legal rights are. The city says I agreed to purchase the house "AS IS" I didn't know the house was condemned and the city was going to demolish it but now that I purchased the house it is my responsibility.

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October 08 2011 - Lackawanna

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Replies (4)

Michael Emery, "MikeEmery"
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Contributions:8181

Follow the link to legal assistance for Erie County. This is a no cost service if you meet their income guidelines.

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October 08 2011

Raynah
Contributions:2

Thank You for your help.

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October 10 2011

Dan, "the_country_hick"
Contributions:4827

There is a catch that may help you. The city was required to disclose any known problems with the property. The city condemned that property. If they did not disclose that it was condemned then they misrepresented the property knowingly.

Saying it is as-is does not remove the disclosure requirements. Use the link Michael showed above and include this idea when you talk to a lawyer. You may even find a free initial consultation where a lawyer would take this on just talking to a couple of law offices.

Also, read the article below. It could apply to your situation.
Holmes v. Summer: dilatory disclosures and the damage done | first tuesday journal online