When entering into a real estate transaction, it is essential that you have the proper advice and counsel from a qualified and licensed attorney. People often make the mistake of relying upon the advice of a real estate broker or title insurance company to provide legal advice in connection to a real estate transaction. The purchase and sale of real estate are typically complex legal transactions and require guidance from experienced and qualified professionals that understand how to navigate the intricate legal issues that arise in every transaction. It is advisable for individuals and businesses that are entering into a real estate transaction to hire a real estate closing and title attorney prior to signing a contract. Often, purchasing real estate is one of the most significant legal transactions a person will ever encounter in their lifetime and it is a prudent time to have a lawyer on your side representing your interests. Our experienced attorneys will help you, navigate you through the pitfalls of real estate transactions and avoid the potential problems that may arise in your real estate transaction.
Many buyers and sellers understandably want to save costs, and, as a result, they question whether they need to hire an attorney. Strictly speaking, the answer is, “No”. If you prefer, you can move forward with your transaction on your own.
Practically speaking, however, there are several reasons to hire an attorney to represent you. Working with an experienced attorney can provide much-needed peace of mind. An experienced attorney will also be able to identify issues before they lead to delays and disputes, and, if issues arise, it can be far more cost-effective to address them proactively with the help of an attorney who has your best interests in mind.
One of the advantages of working with a real estate lawyer during closing is that they can review all of the closing documents for you in advance of the closing date and by the time that your closing date arrives, all of the closing documents have been carefully reviewed and finalized and that your title policy commitment has been issued. At the real estate closing, you may be overwhelmed by the number of documents you are required to sign. You may receive a number of documents, which could include a closing statement, legal disclosures, a warranty deed, a bill of sale, affidavits related to the title, and mortgage documents. Our attorneys will review these documents in advance of closing, explain these documents to you, and answer all of your questions so that you are well-informed during the process.
Title searches are often required prior to closing on a real estate transaction, and this requires a full examination of the property’s records, a chain of title, and a review of the public records. If there is a defect in the chain of title, a cloud on the title, or a title defect, it may cause a delay in closing or prevent closing. Many people assume that because they have been issued a title insurance policy, there are no defects in the chain of title, but that is not true.
The Rafuls Law Group will review the title history of the property and determine the seriousness of any defects or clouds on the title, providing sound legal advice which will allow you to make an informed and educated decision prior to closing on any real estate transaction.
If you are involved in the purchase or sale of real estate, do not do it alone. At Rafuls Law Group, we can help. We understand the numerous complex legal issues that arise during the closing, and we will help you overcome your challenges to have a successful real estate transaction.