Purchasing residential or commercial real estate is an enormous financial obligation, requiring buyers to navigate a complex legal system that governs their rights and those of the seller. Even minor mistakes can cause you to assume financial responsibility for liens or zoning irregularities or even purchasing a property you won’t be able to use. The following do’s and don’ts will help you protect your rights in a real estate transaction.

Do:

Look at Several Properties Before Making an Offer

When hunting for a home or looking for the ideal location for their business, many buyers get excited and make an offer on one of the first properties they see. Before committing to buy, view several properties to develop an idea of what the market has to offer and what you should expect to pay.

Opt for the Inspection

Lenders will often require a property inspection before agreeing to finance the purchase, but you may have the option to opt out of this step. Before purchasing any piece of real estate, investing in a professional inspection will bring any potential issues to light and allow you to make an informed decision.

Don’t:

Ignore the Area

The building itself may be perfect for your needs, but neighborhood conditions can have a much larger impact on your quality of life or business activities. Before making an offer, visit the area at different times of day to see what it’s like at night and on the weekends.

Go Without an Attorney

Your real estate agent will represent your interests during the sale, but they can’t provide legal advice. Your attorney will conduct a thorough title search to ensure no one else has a legal claim to the property, review the contract and mortgage documents, and ensure low zoning laws allow you to use the property for your intended purpose.

Whether you’re buying a home or an office building, the legal team at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello P.C. will provide the detailed legal guidance you need. Since 1946, their attorneys have represented the interests of buyers throughout New Haven, CT, in a broad range of real estate transactions. To schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (203) 789-­0001 today.