Five Reasons You Need An Experienced Real Estate Attorney

October 26, 2020

#1. Don’t Take a Chance on Your Biggest Investment

A real estate purchase or sale may be the most important transaction and biggest investment you make. Whether you are buying your first home or downsizing later in life, you want to know that your interests are properly represented. With such a large investment on the line, an experienced attorney will make the difference by looking out for your interests, and only your interests, during the negotiation and closing process.

#2. Experienced Attorneys Have Seen It All

Plenty can go right or wrong when dealing with real estate – and an experienced real estate attorney has dealt with all of it. Don’t let an unfortunate surprise derail your purchase or sale. From vague contract terms to parties playing hardball negotiating, attorneys know how to solve problems as they arise, saving you money (and headaches).

#3. Real Estate Contracts Change - and Attorneys Follow Them Closely

In any given area, there are usually a handful of standard real estate contract templates. These make the process simpler by standardizing and simplifying contracts, but if you do not fill out contracts regularly, you could misinterpret – or ignore altogether – an important detail, especially if the standard contract has recently changed. An experienced real estate attorney is aware of changes to the contract as well as any vague or misleading terms that could get in the way of closing the transaction and end up costing you more money.

#4. Transactions Involve More Than Signing on the Dotted Line

“Signing the contract” is not the end of a real estate deal, but the beginning. What follows is a series of negotiations and revisions and a bevy of paperwork that can feel overwhelming for a buyer or seller. Experienced attorneys have systems for keeping track of these tasks and making sure they get completed on time. Don’t cause yourself extra stress by juggling everything that needs doing – let a professional handle it.

#5. Different Jurisdictions Have Different Rules, and Enforce Them Differently
 

Whether a piece of property is governed by a city, a village, or an unincorporated township, the jurisdiction will have specific rules for property transfers. Forms must be filed by certain deadlines before the transfer can proceed. Compliance with these can mean the difference between a smooth sale and an endless bureaucratic entanglement. This becomes all-the-more important when you are purchasing or selling real estate in a jurisdiction with which you are unfamiliar. Attorneys are well-versed in local ordinances and department rules, saving you time and preventing costly mistakes.

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It is important that you hire an attorney who will handle your transaction personally. Many “discount” real estate attorneys will gladly accept your business and promptly pass along the work on your transaction to a paralegal, who does not have the experience or knowledge of an attorney. Your attorney should handle your transaction from contract to closing. Choose wisely. The experienced attorney may charge more, but you will be able to rest easy knowing your deal is in the hands of a pro.

Buying or selling real estate? Reach out to our office at 773-631-9215 or by email at StrzalkaLaw@maslawoffice.com for experienced, attentive representation in your transaction.