Real Estate Law Title

Every state has its own set of real estate laws. Generally, the help of a real estate agent is not legally required, even though he or she can help you with items that may skirt legal ones, including preparing a home purchase contract. That being said, in some states only a lawyer is allowed to prepare home purchase documents, perform a title search, and close the deal. If you are a first-time homebuyer or are buying or selling a home without the help of an agent, a real estate lawyer can answer your questions, help you negotiate, and keep you in the know with the gritty details of property law. Here is a short guide on how to find a good property lawyer in your area.

First, get referrals. Whether you get them from family members, friends, or co-workers, past clients are in the best position to give you advice on where to go to find a good lawyer. If all else fails, your state’s bar association, local real estate brokers, and local realtors’ association can also provide reliable referrals. Keep in mind that you will get the best service for your money if the attorney either is also a licensed real estate broker or offers state bar association “certified real property law specialist” services. The combination is unbeatable in providing you with the most knowledgeable help.

After gathering a list of referrals, informally interview them with a list of questions that pertain to your situation. Most attorneys will answer simple questions over the phone for free. Important information to gather during these conversations include how much each lawyer charges per hour and an estimate of the time required to complete the items you require, such as looking over contracts, handling disclosures, and assisting with the closing. Many attorneys are willing to handle multiple tasks for a fixed price or retainer.

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, pick the attorney you feel with meet your needs the best for the lowest cost.