Real Estate Law FAQ 

1) Do I need a real estate lawyer when buying or selling?
You should have competent legal counsel representing you whether you are buying or selling real estate.

2) What does a real estate lawyer do in a closing?
They review documents, address title issues, explain obligations, and help ensure the transaction is properly completed.  Lawyers also act as Settlement Agents and represent buyers at Closing.  As a buyer, you are free to select the Settlement Agent for your transaction.

3) What is title, and why does it matter?
Title is legal ownership. Title problems (liens, errors, claims) can delay or derail a sale.

4) What is title insurance?
It can protect against certain title issues that weren’t found before closing.

5) Can you review a lease before I sign it?
Yes. Leases can create long-term responsibilities, so reviewing terms can help avoid surprises.

6) What are common real estate disputes?
Boundary issues, contract disputes, landlord-tenant problems, HOA/condo disputes, and claims about repairs or disclosures.

7) What can delay a closing?
Financing issues, inspections, appraisal problems, title defects, missing paperwork, and repair disputes.

8) How long does a transaction take?
Residential deals often take weeks; commercial deals can take longer depending on due diligence and financing.