When dealing with real estate, whether it’s buying or selling, it is important to invest in the services of a qualified real estate lawyer. Not only is a real estate lawyer familiar with the steps involved in the process, but they can also advise you while steering you in the right direction to best accomplish your goals.
When considering working with a real estate lawyer, it helps to know what legal services they will offer to help facilitate the transaction best. The lawyer’s primary goal is to negotiate the contract and ensure that the outcome is fair to all the parties involved.
Who is a Real Estate Lawyer?
A real estate lawyer is a licensed attorney who specializes in representing clients in matters related to real estate. Real estate lawyers can represent buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, developers, and investors in residential and commercial transactions. They may also handle cases involving zoning issues, land use regulations, environmental law, or property tax appeals. Some real estate lawyers also represent clients in construction defect litigation, mechanic’s liens, and eminent domain proceedings.
Once real estate agents settle the price and terms and contracts are signed, the real estate lawyer takes over. The lawyer reviews the contracts, negotiates repairs, and makes adjustments following the terms of the deal.
When to Hire a Real Estate Lawyer
- An individual may hire a real estate lawyer if they are an out-of-town buyer.
- A transaction involving a bank-owned or short-sale property should include a lawyer.
- Buying commercial properties or properties with structural issues and buildings located in hazardous areas warrant the services of a real estate lawyer.
- A seller may hire a lawyer if the property they want to sell is in a state of distress.
- You should also hire a lawyer when trying to sell a property with an uncooperative partner.
Never make a move in real estate transactions unless you have the backing of a lawyer who knows the business. However, before settling on a lawyer, it is important to consult with them and ask questions to determine the best fit for your needs. Ask questions until you are comfortable with the answers.
Here are the questions to ask your real estate lawyer:
What Are Your Qualifications?
Most lawyers are knowledgeable in all areas of the law but focus on one or two specific practices, so ask what aspects of real estate law they focus on. Real estate law itself is a specialization.
Ideally, the real estate lawyer would have earned a law degree from an accredited school, and they might have attended law school in another state. Don’t be afraid to ask how many years of real estate experience they have. Also, since real estate laws differ among states, ask how long the attorney has been practicing in your state.
What is Your Relevant Experience?
In addition to finding out how many years the lawyer has been practicing, you should ask about their experience handling cases similar to yours. A lawyer who has had experience handling similar cases to yours will be a valuable asset. Every real estate transaction varies, so find a professional who can expect potential hurdles and ask them about practical strategies for your case
Asking about your lawyer’s tactics to handle your case offers a great deal of insight into how knowledgeable they are about real estate law.
What Are Your Legal Fees?
Be sure to ask your lawyer about their legal fees upfront. You must be comfortable with the fee arrangement before moving forward. Most lawyers charge by the hour, while others may charge a flat rate. Legal fees can be negotiated. Additionally, specify the services that will be included in your given contract.
Although price is one consideration, it shouldn’t be the only factor to consider.
Who Will be Involved in My Case?
Inquire about the lawyers who will be working on your case. If it is a large law firm, they may hand over partial work to paralegals or junior attorneys. Learn who, besides the lawyer, will be involved in working on your case. It is important that you feel comfortable with whomever you are working with and confident in their abilities.
Ask for the contact information of other legal team members in the event you are unable to reach your lawyer.
Can You Provide References?
Meeting with a potential real estate lawyer initially can reveal a great deal about compatibility, the extent of legal knowledge and professionalism, and references from past clients and other real estate professionals play a significant role in helping you settle confidently on the right lawyer.
This can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism, work ethic, and communication ability.
A real estate deal can be among the biggest of life decisions. A lot of unanticipated issues may arise during a real estate transaction. If you’re set on closing a real estate deal, you are advised to ask the above questions to ensure you get the best real estate lawyer working on your behalf.
Working with Saanichton Law Group
Consider Saanichton law group whether you plan to sell or buy residential or commercial real estate. We provide qualified legal representation to individuals selling or buying all real estate types. Our lawyers assist homeowners and landlords, tenants, owners, and lenders. We also assist our clients with facilitating the transfer of ownership, assisting with negotiations, and attending the closing.
Our team expertly handles various housing court matters. Our real estate lawyers will protect you from liens, back taxes, and other issues. We also assist landlords with the drafting of leases and review lease agreements for tenants.
Our real estate lawyers are knowledgeable about Saanichton and Victoria area real estate law and will diligently work on behalf of clients in surrounding areas.
Call us at 250.544.0727 to schedule your initial consultation today.
