West Virginia 2025 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB3428

Introduced
3/17/25  

Caption

Establishing a three month time limit for a purchaser of real property to have a deed recorded.

Impact

The law, if enacted, will streamline the process of deed recordation, ensuring that all transactions are officially recognized within a set timeline. This change is expected to enhance the clarity and efficiency of property transactions in West Virginia, ultimately benefiting purchasers by safeguarding their ownership rights against later disputes. Furthermore, timely recording of deeds can also help local government agencies maintain updated property records for tax assessment and planning purposes.

Summary

House Bill 3428 seeks to amend West Virginia's laws regarding the authentication and recordation of writings related to real property transactions. The primary focus of the bill is to establish a firm requirement that purchasers of real property must record their deeds within three months of closing. This amendment aims to create a more standardized and timely process for documenting property ownership, which is essential for legal purposes and for maintaining accurate public records in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 3428 appears to be generally positive among property law advocates and real estate professionals, who view the bill as a necessary update to existing laws. They argue that a fixed timeframe for recording deeds enhances security and transparency in real estate transactions. However, some potential concerns were raised regarding the burden this requirement may place on new homebuyers, especially those who may be unfamiliar with the legal processes involved in property acquisition.

Contention

Notable points of contention center on the implications of enforcing the three-month recording requirement. Critics may argue that this could impose pressure on buyers, particularly in scenarios where immediate recording may not be feasible due to various factors, such as delays in financial transactions or other unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, there could be discussions about the adequacy of current public awareness regarding this requirement and whether additional education or resources will be needed to help facilitate compliance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV SB191

Relating to real property conveyed by land installment agreement

WV SB548

Clarifying what parties can redeem delinquent property and limiting those entitled to bid

WV SB71

Relating to real property conveyed by land installment agreement

WV HB3203

Relating generally to West Virginia Real Estate License Act

WV HB2126

Relating to increasing the amount of money for which a purchase may be made without obtaining three bids to ten thousand dollars

WV SB249

WV Real Estate License Act

WV HB4967

Relating to the administration of the Voluntary Remediation and Redevelopment Act to provide new liability protections for persons and companies who wish to purchase and redevelop former industrial properties.

WV HB3202

Clarifying what parties are entitled to redeem delinquent property

WV HB2799

Impose criminal liability and penalties upon purchasers of goods for delivery who refuse to return rejected goods to the vendor after the purchaser has had their purchase money reimbursed

WV HB4410

Impose criminal liability and penalties upon purchasers of goods for delivery who refuse to return rejected goods to the vendor after the purchaser has had their purchase money reimbursed

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.