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In addition to being one of the most significant financial investments, most people will ever make, buying a home is also a notoriously complex legal process. While real estate agents are instrumental in finding the ideal property and negotiating a fair price, they lack the legal expertise to prepare binding contracts and protect your interests. Hiring a skilled real estate attorney provides valuable peace of mind and prevents costly mistakes, particularly for those purchasing their first home.

Why You Need a Real Estate Attorney When Buying a Home

Contract Preparation & Review

Real estate purchase agreements and contracts are dense documents, in which seemingly minor provisions can have dramatic consequences if legal conflicts arise. While the standardized forms real estate agents typically use may be adequate for most situations, if the deal you negotiated includes special contingencies or unusual circumstances, you should have a real estate attorney review the document before signing. Having a legal professional prepare the final contract will eliminate doubt and ensure the deal clearly reflects the terms negotiated with the seller.

Thorough Title Search

real estate attorneyIf a lien or a competing claim on the property emerges after closing, you will be financially responsible for those obligations. Real estate attorneys have the resources and research skills to carefully examine public records, including deeds and wills, to identify any encumbrances you should be aware of before closing.

Advice on Local Codes & Tenant Law

Many property owners purchase a home with the intent of renovating or completely remodeling the property. However, local building codes and zoning laws may inhibit your ability to improve the home, which many buyers only discover after the fact. For example, the home may be part of a historic district, requiring buildings to be maintained in their original state, or the property may already have a tenant living in a rental unit. Real estate attorneys have an in-depth understanding of these ordinances and will determine whether your plans are feasible.


As proud members of the American Land Title Association, Pill & Pill PLLC is focused exclusively on real estate law, with the wide-ranging experience to help buyers in almost any transaction. They have served the Martinsburg, WV, area for over 40 years, preventing problems before they begin and resolving complex disputes when legal issues arise. Visit their website for more on their services, or call (304) 263-4971 for an appointment with an experienced real estate attorney.

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