Real Estate Law
For most people, buying real estate in the most expensive purchase they will ever make. Having a qualified real estate attorney to review all of the paperwork in advance of the closing on your behalf and advise you of any problems or omissions with the documentation. At the closing, the attorney will represent your interests.
Many states require an attorney be present at closing, but it’s always good to have someone that understands the process and can answer questions or concerns before you enter into a binding contract.
What Real Estate Law Covers
Real estate law encompasses the purchase and sale of real property, meaning land and any structure on it. It also covers legal issues related to anything that is attached to the property or structures, such as appliances and fixtures.
Lawyers who specialize in this branch of the legal system ensure that proper procedures are followed during the acquisition or sale of property. They also may be concerned with the use of property. Real estate law covers deeds, property taxes, estate planning, zoning, and titles.
The Attorney's Responsibilities
A real estate attorney is equipped to prepare and review documents relating to real estate such as purchase agreements, mortgage documents, title documents, and transfer documents.
Closing Process
A real estate closing is generally a long and stressful process that involves many steps and procedural formalities. Closing occurs when you sign the papers that make the house yours, but before that fateful day arrives, a long list of things has to happen. Understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and prepare you for the buying or selling process. Use the links below to learn more about the process we use and what we will be asking for.
What is required for closing?
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
What you need to provide prior to closing:
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A copy of a signed contact along with any and all addendums
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Contact numbers of the buyers and sellers
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Name and number of the lender/broker
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Homeowners Association and information, including contact name, telephone number and address
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Fax copy of the official wood and termite inspection report
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All payoff information together with contact information for each loan, account numbers, social security numbers for all parties involved
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Do you require a survey?
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Information for funds being held in escrow, if applicable
What you need to bring to closing:
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Original signed contact with all addendums
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Original home warranty
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Copy of repair bills (paid/unpaid) if applicable
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Original official wood and termite report
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If earnest money exceeds commission, please bring to closing
BUILDERS
What we need from you:
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Survey
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Certificate of Occupancy
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Official wood and termite inspection report is needed prior to closing-cost and to whom
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Home builders warranty, if applicable, is needed prior to closing-cost and to whom
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Percentage of house completed as of January 1 st is needed prior to closing
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Payoff information, loan numbers, phone numbers, point of contact-prior to closing
What you may need from us:
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Preliminary HUD
LENDERS
What we need from you:
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Date and time of closing
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Who is on the title commitment
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How the mortgage clause should be read, the borrower's name and loan amount
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Is this a first and second?
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What type of loan is this? (FHA, VA, Conventional)
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Do you require a survey?
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Method of delivery of loan package and to whom?
What you may need from us:
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Tax and homeowners insurance amount
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Insured closing letter
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Title Commitment
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Wiring Instructions
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Subordination agreement
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Preliminary HUD
* The items may be ordered from us by submitting a title order here