A home buying agent and a real estate attorney both work to find clients suitable properties and guide them through the intricacies of the legal and financial transactions that follow. This is where the similarities between these two professionals end. Many first-time homebuyers are not sure if they need an agent, a real estate attorney, or both. To help shed more light on this issue, the key differences between the two are explained in more detail below.

What Does a Home Buying Agent Do?

The home buying agent handles the nuts and bolts of finding properties that meet their client's needs. They set up appointments to view listings, take clients to showings and open houses, and educate clients about neighborhoods, schools, and local amenities.

When a client is ready to make an offer, the agent communicates that offer and serves as the point-person between the seller and buyer, negotiating on behalf of the buyer to get the best deal possible. The agent can also recommend other professionals that may be needed during the home buying process, such as house inspectors, contractors, and financial services.

What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

A real estate attorney represents the legal and financial interests of the buyer at every stage of the transaction. Purchasing a home requires preparing, writing, and reviewing a number of important legal contracts, such as mortgage documents, purchase agreements, and title and transfer paperwork. These all need to be completed according to state laws, and their terms and contents must be sure to protect the buyer's position in the sale.

A real estate attorney's other responsibilities include conducting title searches on the property, writing title insurance policies, and managing the transfer of funds from buyer to seller. If any legal issues arise during the sale, like code violations or zoning problems, the real estate attorney has the skill and experience to address these problems before they can derail the transaction or harm the buyer's interests.

A real estate attorney is uniquely suited to look out for their clients. Their background ensures the transaction is legally binding, and they have legal expertise and education that agents do not have.

It's a common misconception that you must have a real estate agent to buy a house—in actuality, you are not legally required to have one. Many buyers can find properties on their own through newspaper and internet listings. Still, an agent can provide a wealth of neighborhood knowledge and market expertise that can streamline the process and help buyers get better deals.

Attorneys provide distinct services. State law requires their involvement in certain circumstances. Retaining one early in the process offers access to guidance and protection at every step, from searching for liens to attending the closing.

When you need a real estate attorney in New London County, CT, trust Stuart R. Norman Jr. Since 1974, Attorney Norman has been representing buyers in real estate transactions. He also offers estate planning services. He works with both residential and commercial clients and makes the property buying experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Call (860) 376-0069 or visit his website to schedule a consultation.