How to Find a Real Estate Lawyer? This is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, so why not start by learning how to find one? When looking for an attorney, the first thing you should do is get in touch with your local Bar Association and see what members are recommended. If none, then start there. The more you know about the attorney you are considering, the better the choice you will ultimately make.
Once you have a few names of lawyers that you can consider, it is time to do a background check on them. One way to do this is by asking potential clients how they found their attorney and whether they plan to use them again. Another is by doing a direct Google search of any real estate attorney in your area and reading any reviews you can find.
In the process of looking for a real estate lawyer for your next real estate transaction, there are several things you must keep in mind. First, you need to find someone who is experienced enough to handle what you are likely to face, whether it is negotiating the purchase price, drafting a contract, collecting the buyer’s earnest money or selling your property. Second, keep in mind that although the attorney is supposed to be an expert in these areas, he or she is also a businessperson and as such, should be able to help you through the closing process and towards the ultimate sale of your property. The closing part of the transaction includes not just the legal paperwork, but also the collection of the buyer’s earnest money. And finally, the attorney is charged with a very important role in the transfer of title from the seller to the buyer. This will ensure that the title to your property will be transferred properly, guaranteeing a profitable sale and an amicable closing.
There are a few ways to find a good real estate lawyer, regardless of whether you are buying or selling property, and no matter what your state of residence may be. The first way would be to ask your local real estate agents. All real estate agents are bound by their Realtor’s Association and will most likely know of at least a few attorneys who are willing to undertake your case. They may even know of one or two who are willing to take it to a licensed attorney. In this way you will have the advantage of a first-hand interview of the attorney before making a decision to hire him or her.
But you may feel uncomfortable speaking to real estate agents about your case and the possibility of hiring an attorney. After all, the real estate transaction is between you and the agent, and you don’t want them getting involved. You can avoid this issue by enlisting the aid of Internet directories. Simply search the name of the attorney in the search engine and you will be presented with several results. Most of these websites will allow you to browse their attorneys’ web sites so you can decide for yourself if you think they would be able to help your situation.
Another way to locate and interview a real estate lawyer is by speaking with those attorneys who have experience in your area. Call around and ask those close to you if they would be willing to speak with your Realtor and discuss your real estate closing needs. An attorney may be willing to spend a reasonable amount of time with you and assess your problem. If he or she thinks it may be something beyond your ability to solve on your own, they may be willing to take on your case pro Bono. These types of cases are generally referred to as “contingency” cases, which means that your attorney is usually paid after the transaction closes.
Attorneys do not charge up front for their services, but normally will charge a percentage of the sale price of the property. Most lawyers will require an upfront retainer. Some will not charge any fees until after they help you close the deal, so be sure to find out beforehand. Many people underestimate the importance of the real estate lawyer in a transaction. They can prevent problems before they occur. They are also invaluable when there are mishaps during the transaction that cannot be resolved.
If you choose not to use a real estate lawyer but would like legal representation, then it is important to shop around for the best legal professionals. It is important to interview several of them, meet with them and get a feel for who you feel most comfortable with. It is always better to have legal representation than not, and the sooner you find a great one, the better.