Whether you’re buying or selling a property, it helps to have a real estate lawyer on retainer. Depending on where you live, such as Pennsylvania, you may be legally required to have a real estate attorney present during closing proceedings. Below, review what services these legal professionals provide to streamline property transactions.

3 Real Estate Lawyer Responsibilities

1. Reviews the Contract & Negotiates Any Adjustments

The real estate attorney reviews the contract between the buyer and seller in detail to ensure it meets their client’s needs. They go over the document with their client to avoid terminology confusion and provide reassurance that any liens or tax debts associated with the property were resolved following the title search.

If any issues were identified during the home inspection—such as asbestos in the basement or aluminum electrical wiring that increases the fire risk—the real estate lawyer re-negotiates transaction terms. Serious problems require the seller to either fund repair costs or lower the asking price.

2. Prepares Closing Documents

Attorneys who specialize in real estate transactions frequently prepare a range of closing documents for their clients, including title insurance policies, purchase agreements, lease or mortgage contracts, transfer of title documents, and other notarized documents connected to the sale.

In addition to preparing closing documents that meet all legal requirements, real estate lawyers also draft eviction notices for landlords who are dealing with tenants who refuse to pay rent.

3. Resolves Chain of Title Issues & Other Disputes

Any disputes that arise during the closing process get resolved by the attorney, such as those concerning the chain of title, land disputes involving multiple owners, and zoning issues. They also help buyers and sellers resolve disputes regarding repairs and renovations, and make certain there are no other problems related to the sale.

Should the buyer and seller continue to disagree and want to settle their dispute in front of a judge, the real estate lawyer provides representation after hearing both sides of the case. 

The team at Zebley, Mehalov & White, P.C. provides real estate services to residents throughout Washington, Fayette, Green, and Westmoreland counties in Southwestern Pennsylvania. They’ve offered dedicated counsel since 2001. Call (724) 439-9200 to discuss your upcoming real estate transaction or visit the attorneys online for more practice area information.