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Do I Need A Real Estate Attorney For Buying A Home?

Wed 10th Jun, 2020 Real Estate

Buying property can be complicated, even with an experienced real estate agent or broker. However, a real estate attorney can provide legal counsel where an agent or broker cannot, helping buyers make better informed real estate decisions.

At McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau, LLP, our real estate attorneys work to achieve the best outcomes for our clients’ real estate endeavors. If you are interested in consulting a real estate attorney for buying a home in Stockton, CA, or Central Valley, CA, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys.

Why Hire a Real Estate Attorney?

Although some states require home buyers to hire an attorney, in Stockton and the rest of California, it is not required when purchasing a home.

Even though hiring a real estate attorney is not a requirement, it is helpful and something many buyers choose to do. Our team can discuss some of the most common and beneficial reasons buyers may choose to have a real estate attorney.

Real Estate Attorneys Don’t Earn a Commission

When buyers are represented by a real estate attorney, they often enjoy peace of mind knowing that they are not being taken advantage of by the seller or even their own real estate agent, who stands to make a large commission from the home sale.

Real estate attorneys are typically paid either by the hour or a flat rate, which means they are not paid more or less money based on the purchase price of the home.

Review of Contracts and Paperwork

A real estate attorney can review all paperwork related to the property and its sale, including inspection reports, titles, and contracts. Based on their review, the attorney can make recommendations that would suit the best interests of their client.

Familiarity with Real Estate Laws

Real estate laws can be complex, especially in non-traditional home purchasing situations, such as auctions, estates, or homes with unpermitted work.

Attorneys who specialize in real estate are well versed in real estate laws and how the purchase of certain properties may affect a buyer in regard to taxes and other legalities.

Real Estate Agents and Brokers Can’t Provide Legal Advice

Although many real estate agents and brokers are familiar with real estate laws and may inform buyers about these laws, they cannot provide legal advice.

In general, only a licensed attorney can provide legal advice. When complications, questions, or uncertainties arise in the home-buying process, a real estate attorney can look at the situation and make recommendations that will serve the buyer’s best interests.

Schedule a Consultation with McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau, LLP

Buying a home is a major decision that can quickly become complicated without the right guidance. If you are considering making a real estate purchase and would like to have the peace of mind of having a real estate attorney by your side, our team is standing by to help. Schedule a consultation online to learn more about how our attorneys can help you with the legal aspects of purchasing a home. You can also reach our team by calling 209-477-8171.

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