Real Property Laws Passed by the 2007 Maryland General Assembly
May 31, 2007

What real property laws were passed by the 2007 session of the Maryland General Assembly?



The legislature passed a number of new laws this year affecting real property, and only a select few can be summarized here. Undoubtedly, the legislation that generated the most media coverage dealt with ground rents. Several bills were passed to limit and regulate ground rents. By emergency legislation effective on January 22, 2007, the legislature prohibited the creation of new ground rents on real property used for four or fewer dwelling units. The General Assembly also repealed the ability of a ground rent owner to file an ejectment action for nonpayment of ground rent, and instead provides for the imposition of a lien. New legislation was passed regarding eminent domain, although the government's ability to condemn private property for private development remains unaffected. Finally, legislation long sought by real property lawyers makes the Rule Against Perpetuities inapplicable to real property interests in may instances.

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John Wise, Esquire

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