When people decide to get involved in any kind of real estate transaction, one of the first professionals they talk to is a real estate attorney. It is very easy for someone who has no legal experience to be overwhelmed by what a real estate attorney says, but it is important to keep a level head and know the kinds of questions you need to ask to find the right attorney for your real estate transaction.
Commercial and residential real estate law can be very complicated. One of the aspects that makes it so complicated is that the rules and laws can change from county to county. While it is always nice to give a new attorney a chance at your business, an experienced real estate lawyer is going to know the intricacies of real estate transactions in your area and help you to get the best possible results.
Residential real estate transactions are not the same as commercial transactions. There are also differences in the way certain types of commercial real estate transactions are handled as well. When you start interviewing attorneys, be sure that you are hiring one who has worked on your type of transaction in the past.
You want a real estate attorney that is going to do more than just make sure all of the paperwork is properly executed. If a survey issue comes up during the buying process, you want to be assured that your attorney is going to contact you and help you solve the problem. You want a proactive attorney who understands that the only way real estate transactions get finalized is when the attorney stays on top of the details.
Most attorneys require a retainer up front, and then send you a bill once a month. But not every attorney bills clients the same way. Some attorneys do not bill for five minute phone calls to clarify something, while others do. It is important that you ask about how your potential real estate attorney bills their customers so that you know what kind of bill to expect as the process moves along.
The more successful attorneys in your area often allow their paralegals to work on certain types of real estate cases. In most situations, the attorney will review any information before it is released, but the information is prepared and researched by someone else. If the idea of someone other than the attorney working on your transaction bothers you, then this is a question you need to ask.
Before you dismiss an attorney who delegates work, it may be worth your time to talk to the paralegals to see if you are comfortable with them. Most attorneys charge a lower rate for the work their paralegals do, and this could be a chance for you to get the legal representation you need at a discounted price.
Before you decide on a real estate attorney, you need to be sure to ask the right questions and find one you are comfortable with. Your attorney will do work on your real estate transaction that could affect you for many years. It is a good idea to be very comfortable with the qualifications of your real estate attorney before you entrust them with your business.
