What can you offer?

Yes, property owners in North Carolina have the right to negotiate the terms of the condemnation with the condemning authority. Negotiation is a crucial step in the eminent domain process and provides an opportunity for property owners to reach a mutually agreeable resolution regarding the terms of the taking, including compensation and other relevant conditions.

Here's how the negotiation process typically works in North Carolina:

1. Initial Offer:
The condemning authority, usually a government agency or entity with eminent domain powers, will make an initial offer to the property owner. This offer includes the proposed compensation for the property being taken.

2. Review and Consideration:
The property owner has the right to review the offer and consider its terms. It's essential to carefully evaluate the proposed compensation and other conditions outlined in the offer.

3. Counteroffer:
If the property owner disagrees with the initial offer, they can submit a counteroffer to the condemning authority. The counteroffer may propose a different compensation amount or suggest modifications to other terms of the taking.

4. Negotiations:
Both parties engage in negotiations to try to reach a consensus. This may involve discussions about the fair market value of the property, any additional damages or impacts, and other relevant factors.

5. Agreement or Impasse:
If the negotiations result in an agreement, the parties can proceed with the agreed-upon terms of the condemnation. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the condemnation process may proceed to legal proceedings, and potentially court proceedings.

It's important for property owners to approach negotiations with a clear understanding of their rights and the fair market value of their property. Seeking assistance from a qualified attorney, preferably one with experience in North Carolina condemnation law, such as the experienced attorneys at RHR, can be beneficial during this process. Our attorneys can help assess the fairness of the offer, provide guidance on negotiation strategies, and advocate for the property owner's interests throughout the eminent domain proceedings.