A Real estate attorney might not be at the top of your list if you’re in the market for a new home. You may have already considered hiring a real estate agent, but there is more to the transaction when you are ready to sign the dotted line. Buying a home is exciting, whether you choose to build from an empty lot or purchase a home that’s already standing. Choosing your home, floor plan, and neighborhood is a fun part of the home buying process.
The part that’s not as fun, however, is the most important part. Buying a home requires a lot more paperwork than one might expect – and there’s even more to consider. Inspections, working with contractors, and other pre-move in necessities require working with outside professionals in an arena where you might not have expertise.
That’s why many people choose to hire a real estate agent. This person has the experience and education to guide you through the process so it feels smoother from start to finish. Sometimes, however, you may run into snags that require more than what a real estate agent can provide. In those cases, a real estate attorney may be a better option for you.
So, how do you know if a real estate agent or real estate attorney is better for your circumstances? Let’s find out.
Should You Hire a Real Estate Agent?
In some instances, a real estate agent can be helpful for navigating the search for a new home. When you are moving from an apartment or other living space to a home for the first time, there are many things to consider, including:
- Your location
- Commutes
- Price range
- Floor plan
- Neighborhood
- School district
A real estate agent can help with the search for a home. They will use their expertise to narrow down your options and help you choose the right home for your specific needs.
Beyond the search for a home, a real estate agent may not be able to help with effective negotiation of contracts. When you’re ready to make an offer, it’s the right time to consider hiring a real estate attorney.
How Can a Real Estate Attorney Help?
Real estate attorneys bring a particular set of skills and experience to the tabling for the closing phase of buying a new home.
When it comes time to sign your name on the dotted line, many new homebuyers balk at the language on the contract. How can you be sure that the terms listed are in your best interest? What does all the jargon mean?
Remember that, while most title lenders are trustworthy, occasionally swindlers will swoop in on unsuspecting homebuyers to take advantage of the situation. Having a pair of expert eyes look through your closing documents will give you peace of mind, letting you know that the details are fair and upright.
Depending on the home buying scenario, an attorney can help fine-tune closing details.
New Home Builds. Buying an empty lot and watching it grow into your brand-new home is a one-of-a-kind experience. In this scenario, you will enter into a contract with the builder sometime during the construction process. When the foundation is laid, walls are up, and other foundational structures are in place, the closing process will begin. It can be scary to sign your closing documents before the construction is complete. What happens if something goes wrong? What are your rights? At this stage, hiring a real estate attorney can ensure that you are covered, no matter the scenario.
On the Ground New Home Buys. Sometimes, homebuyers choose to skip the construction phase and buy a home that is newly built and has never had tenants. In some cases, you can find a better deal on these homes. While the home is new, you may not know exactly how it came to be. If a previous buyer had the home built and then abandoned it before closing, the home may have more history than you realize. A real estate attorney can help you navigate contracts with inspection companies, the title lender, and more throughout the process.
Older Home Buys. A home that has been well-loved has a lot to offer a potential buyer. You can find a home in an established neighborhood with schools, shops, and more readily available. You may even step into some equity in the home you’re considering. With older homes, however, comes more risk. You may discover that everything is not what it seems after you move – any homebuyers worst nightmare. Now more than ever, hiring a real estate attorney is beneficial. An attorney will review closing contracts and negotiate to include the terms you need the most. You’ll feel secure knowing that you have a professional to turn to with any questions or concerns along the way.
Commercial real estate leases, transactions and legal disputes are also handled by the attorneys at Lubliner Law.
What is it Like to Work with a Real Estate Attorney?
As mentioned, a real estate attorney enters the picture when the closing process begins. Your attorney will start by reviewing your contract and negotiating terms. When you’re both satisfied, the process will be underway. Your attorney will monitor the process to ensure that everyone involved keeps their obligations under the contract, and that all deadlines outlined in such are met.
Your attorney will also be able to assist with the inspection and survey process. Before hiring an inspector, your attorney can review the contract to ensure that you’re covered in the areas you need.
Should any disputes arise along the way, your attorney can mitigate any risk.
Choose a Professional Florida Real Estate Attorney
If you’re in the market for a new home, Lubliner Law has the experienced team you need to close. Our team includes real estate attorneys with expertise in both buying and selling homes. We offer services in residential and commercial property closings. We’re here to help you through every step of the home buying process.
Let Lubliner Law attorneys serve as the “point person” for all your closing needs. Call us at (561) 207-2018 for a free consultation.