The purchase and/or sale of real estate will most likely be the largest, most important financial transaction of your life. In order to ensure the smooth and proper handling of such a transaction, both the seller and purchaser should hire a Lake County real estate attorney .
A real estate attorney cares only about representing your interests. Your real estate lawyer will advise you of potential problems with the contract and is equipped to resolve many difficulties that can arise. If you are unable to consult with a real estate lawyer prior to signing the contract, you should sign subject to your real estate attorney’s approval within three to five days of contract acceptance.
Even if you have not consulted with a real estate lawyer during the contract process, you should select one to assist you in completing the transaction. A real estate transaction is a complicated process. You need someone on your side who understands all aspects of the proceedings. The following are some of the matters that your attorney will address to protect you.
Title Examination and Title Insurance
The parties to a transaction need to make certain that the seller has good and marketable title to the property. A real estate lawyer will order a title search from a reputable title insurance agent with intimate knowledge of the land records for your area. He will review the title commitment and resolve any curable defects at or prior to closing. Your lawyer will explain to you any limitations on your rights that cannot be removed so that you are fully informed as to the status of the property. Your lawyer will also make certain that the purchaser receives a policy of title insurance that protects both the purchaser and the seller in the event a party alleging an undisclosed interest in the property makes a claim. He will assure that the purchaser’s lender, if any, receives a title policy meeting its requirements.
Real Estate Survey
Your real estate lawyer will order and review a survey of the property prepared by a reputable licensed surveyor, unless the property involved is a condominium or townhouse. He will ascertain whether the house and other structures are within the boundary lines and whether the purchaser’s rights in the land are protected. He will advise the seller on how to resolve any encroachments that may be discovered.
Real Estate Closing
Your real estate attorney will prepare many of the documents required to close. He is intimately familiar with recent changes in the law and will make certain that the paper work complies. In addition, your real estate lawyer will review the numerous documents prepared by the purchaser’s lender and will explain those documents to you. Your real estate lawyer is also responsible for preparing and/or reviewing all closing figures. He will explain what is happening with your money and assure that you do not pay any inappropriate charges.
If you are buying or selling real estate, call us at 847-599-9101 or email us for assistance.
