Protecting Homebuyers: Legal Solutions for Real Estate Disputes

Authors

  • Andreas Marfel Silaban Fakultas Ilmu Sosial, Universitas Pembangunan Panca Budi
  • Beby Sendy Fakultas Ilmu Sosial, Universitas Pembangunan Panca Budi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/marcopolo.v3i3.28

Keywords:

Consumer Protection, Real Estate Disputes, Arbitration, Online Dispute Resolution, Contract Law

Abstract

Consumer protection in real estate disputes remains a critical issue across jurisdictions due to variations in legal frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and dispute resolution procedures. This study adopts a qualitative legal research methodology, employing doctrinal and comparative legal analyses to examine statutory protections, contractual obligations, and judicial precedents related to consumer rights in property transactions. A key focus is placed on the effectiveness of litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, including the emerging role of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR). The findings highlight that while legal instruments such as the EU ADR Directive and the New York Convention provide structured approaches to dispute resolution, inconsistencies in implementation, judicial inefficiencies, and power imbalances continue to hinder consumer access to justice. The study underscores the need for harmonized legal standards, greater transparency in arbitration clauses, and the establishment of specialized real estate dispute resolution tribunals to enhance consumer protection. The research contributes to ongoing discussions on legal reforms aimed at improving access to justice and ensuring equitable dispute resolution in the real estate sector.

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2025-03-28

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