When you need a Real Estate Attorney, you should do some research on your own to determine if this individual is right for you. This article is not intended to list ALL of the attorneys who should be considered, but can serve as an outline for those that may be a better fit for you. You should also consult with a Realtor before engaging in a transaction so that you are familiar with his or her experience and qualifications. Many attorneys offer free consultations, so take advantage of these. Your attorney should be able to tell you exactly what paperwork and legal forms you need to prepare.
As a buyer or seller, you should expect to fill out several legal forms when you sell or buy a property. Most real estate attorneys charge an hourly rate for such services, while some charge a flat rate instead. The attorney will inform you upfront of what paperwork is needed for each transaction, which will vary according to the type of paperwork involved.
One of the most important pieces of real estate planning is property taxes. If you are purchasing a property, it is especially important to have a property tax attorney handle the property taxes. Many states require you to obtain a property tax certificate before a property tax lien can be placed on the property. This is especially true for secondary market properties, which are generally sold by the owner rather than the buyer.
In addition to property taxes, many states require you to pay real estate licensing fees before you can register to sell or buy a house or property. Unless you are licensed to sell or buy, you must hire an agent to perform this tedious task for you. If you are looking to purchase a house or property, it is always recommended that you hire an attorney to handle such a complex situation. Hiring a Realtor is typically faster and easier than hiring a real estate attorney. While it can be expensive to hire an attorney, remember that they can save you time and potentially avoid costly mistakes.
Whether you are purchasing or selling a home, it is wise to make sure you know what real estate law covers. Depending on where you live, some laws may need to be altered depending on where the property is located. Before making any decisions, you should consult with a qualified real estate agent who specializes in the area of real estate law. He or she will be able to help you better understand your situation and give you an idea as to whether or not you are at risk.
While hiring a real estate lawyer can be expensive, it may be the best choice if you are facing a difficult situation. Many lawyers offer a no-cost consultation, which allows you to meet with the lawyer face-to-face and make certain you feel comfortable. While you can try to handle these matters without professional assistance, most lawyers do offer free consultations. If you decide to use a lawyer, make sure he or she is experienced in dealing with the closing process, foreclosure laws, and other issues specific to your area. There may be other fees associated with the transaction, so be sure to ask the lawyer for a complete cost estimate before you agree to retain them for the services.
