What do you mean when you say you own something?  In this class, we will begin by exploring some of the purposes of property as well as some of its basic concepts. We will then turn to the ways that people acquire property, through actions like simple possession, and (more commonly) purchase from other owners. Next we will make the subject more complicated, taking up divided uses of property like landlord-tenant law, easements and covenants as well as planned communities and other forms of "private governance." We will conclude with obligations imposed by law on property owners–obligations to the neighbors as well as to the public at large.

Property: Principles and Policies by Merrill and Smith (Latest Edition) - REQUIRED

Perspectives on Property Law by Ellickson, Rose and Ackerman - RECOMMENDED