What does a real estate lawyer do?
Real estate lawyers handle the legal side of buying, selling and financing property. They review contracts, check title, deal with lenders and resolve problems such as boundary disputes, easements and defects.
Do you need a real estate attorney in the US?
Some states require an attorney to conduct or take part in a residential closing. In others, title companies or escrow agents usually handle closings. Even where it isn't required, a lawyer is valuable for reviewing purchase contracts, for-sale-by-owner deals, commercial property, title problems and disputes.
How it works in Europe
In much of continental Europe (for example France, Germany, Spain and Italy), property transfers must be completed before a notary, who acts impartially for the state. Buyers, especially foreign buyers, often hire their own independent lawyer to carry out checks and protect their interests.
Questions to ask before you hire a real estate lawyer
- Are you on my lender's approved list?
- What does your fixed fee leave out, such as searches, registration fees or a leasehold supplement?
- Who will deal with my file day to day, and how quickly do you answer enquiries?
- What problems do you see most often with properties like this one?