Tips for Realtors

Understand use and occupancy (U&O)

Some municipalities (meaning, townships, boroughs and cities) require property owners to apply for a use and occupancy (U&O) certificate when selling/transferring a property to a new owner.

Roughly half the municipalities in suburban Philadelphia have a use and occupancy requirement. Some of them require a minor inspection, some of them have in-depth inspections. Read the background of how state law (Act 133) applies to municipalities during the U&O process in our Issue Briefs.

Our Municipal Database provides guidance

The SRA Municipal Database is available to members of our two shareholder associations — the Bucks County Association of REALTORS® and Tri-County Suburban REALTORS®. The database provides information about U&O requirements for each municipality in the Philadelphia suburbs, plus other information Realtors need like sign regulations, rental license requirements and tax rates. Read more here.

Give 30 days for U&Os

As a rule of thumb, when applying for a municipal use and occupancy permit, do so at least 30 days before the scheduled closing. This gives the municipality time to perform its inspection — and a reinspection, if necessary.

Don't forget about municipal authorities

Municipal authorities, like water and sewer authorities, can complicate a sale. These quasigovernmental agencies might have requirements for property transfers, and in some cases they have easements on properties that buyers and sellers aren't aware of. Read more here.

Keep up on the news

Each week, we publish a roundup of news briefs that are important to real estate. Read them here.

Stay professional

Dealing with government employees, such as codes officers or administrative staff, can sometimes be frustrating. It's in the best interest of you, your clients and your fellow agents to keep a level, professional demeanor at all times. When you hit a serious roadblock, contact us.