Buying a home can be one of the largest investments you will make in your lifetime.
It can be an overwhelming process, as it has many time-sensitive moving parts and key players, including your real estate agent, seller, lender, insurance agent, appraisers, inspectors, and even a real estate closing lawyer. Each state has varying requirements when it comes to buying a home, and having a real estate lawyer present at closing can be beneficial. A real estate lawyer can guide you through the legal process, clarify any contractual issues, and provide you with ample peace of mind surrounding your investment.
Like any type of attorney, a real estate attorney has earned a law degree and has passed the state bar exam. However, either through experience, elective courses, internships, or other education, they have experience in matters related to buying and selling property. Hiring a Florida real estate lawyer for your closing can potentially save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Does Florida Require an Attorney for a Real Estate Closing?
Are you required to hire an attorney for a real estate closing in Florida? While many states will require you to have a real estate attorney present when you close, Florida does not. But these laws can change rapidly, so be sure to check your local and state laws for the most up-to-date, accurate closing requirements.
While it may not be required to have a real estate attorney present when closing, it would behoove you to do so because they are specialized in this area of law and can assist you in checking that all the procedures are properly followed for a smooth transaction.
What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?
What exactly does a real estate attorney do if you already have a real estate agent? When you hire a Florida real estate attorney, they will be on your side and have your best interest in mind throughout the entire process, including preparing and reviewing the purchase agreements, mortgage, title, insurance, and transfer paperwork.
Purchasing real estate is not always a cut and dry process, which makes having a real estate lawyer highly beneficial. Oftentimes, you may encounter a few contractual disputes or title challenges that a real estate closing attorney can help resolve.
Hiring an Attorney for Your Real Estate Closing
The purchase or sale of a home is one of the most important and largest transactions a person or family makes in their lives. The purchase or sale of commercial property (e.g., a storefront, apartment building, warehouse, office, multifamily, or shopping plaza) presents additional potential issues, and the financial exposure for both the buyer and the seller may even be higher.
As a result, the process can cause stress for both buyers and sellers. At Apfelbaum Law, we aim to take the stress out of your real estate transactions in Port St. Lucie, Stuart, and throughout the State of Florida. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your real estate closing.