What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

Real estate lawyers handle a wide variety of legal issues related to property. They may represent buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants in transactions, or help clients resolve disputes. Real estate lawyers also deal with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and construction issues.

Real estate lawyers typically have a background in law, but may also have experience in business, real estate, or construction. They must be able to analyze complex legal and financial documents, and be able to negotiate and advocate for their clients.

The Role of a Real Estate Lawyer

A real estate lawyer is a professional that helps people deal with the legal aspects of buying and selling property. This includes negotiating and drafting contracts, reviewing titles, and resolving disputes. They may also represent clients in court proceedings related to real estate transactions. A real estate lawyer typically charges by the hour, with rates varying depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case. Retainer fees are also common, where the lawyer is paid a set amount upfront to cover anticipated work on the case.

The Types of Cases a Real Estate Lawyer Handles

Real estate lawyers are the unsung heroes of the legal profession. While other lawyers are busy arguing in court or negotiating deals, real estate lawyers are working behind the scenes to make sure that property transactions go smoothly. They handle a wide variety of cases, including the following:

Title searches: A title search is a legal process in which a real estate lawyer reviews public records to make sure that the person selling a property actually owns it and that there are no outstanding liens or claims against it. This is an important step in ensuring that the property is not sold to someone who does not have the legal right to own it.
Contract review: Real estate lawyers also review contracts to make sure that both parties are in agreement about the terms of the sale. They can also help negotiate better terms for their clients.
Estate planning: Real estate lawyers can also help with estate planning. They can help create wills and trusts that allow the property to be transferred to heirs without having to go through probate.
Foreclosure defense: Real estate lawyers can also help homeowners who are facing foreclosure. They can help negotiate loan modifications or represent homeowners in court proceedings.
Real estate transactions: Real estate lawyers are also responsible for completing real estate transactions. They prepare purchase and sale agreements, review title documents, and handle the closing process.

How to Choose a Real Estate Lawyer

When you are buying or selling a home, it is important to have a real estate lawyer to help you through the process. But how do you choose the right lawyer for you?

Here are a few tips:

Ask friends and family for recommendations.
If you know someone who has recently bought or sold a home, ask them for a recommendation for a real estate lawyer. They will likely have a good one to suggest.
Do your research.
There are many lawyers out there, so take the time to do some research before you choose one. Look for lawyers who specialize in real estate law.
Meet with several lawyers.
Don't just choose the first lawyer you meet. Meet with several lawyers and ask them all the same questions. This will help you to compare and contrast their responses.
Ask about fees.
Be sure to ask about the lawyer's fees and what they will include. You don't want any surprises later on.
Choose the lawyer that you feel comfortable with.
Ultimately, you should choose the lawyer that you feel most comfortable with. You will be working with them closely throughout the buying or selling process, so it is important that you trust them.

As you can see, real estate lawyers, handle a wide range of legal issues. If you are buying or selling a property, or if you need help with estate planning, you should contact a real estate lawyer.