When Do You Really Need a Real Estate Lawyer?
Posted: August 20, 2018 4:42 pm
With the transfer of real estate, there are definitely times when an attorney is not necessary and many transactions are completed without the assistance of a real estate lawyer. However, certain transactions are just too costly, complicated or stressful to attempt to complete it on your own. So today we bring you a few situations that should you find yourself facing, you should consult a real estate lawyer.
Is A Real Estate Attorney Required?
Unlike some states, Pennsylvania doesn’t require that you involve a lawyer in your house-selling efforts. However, there are multiple circumstances where you may want to seriously consider a real estate lawyer that is well-versed in all aspects of Pennsylvania real estate law and can assist you with virtually any real estate transaction that you may be contemplating.
Even though one is not required, you may want to hire a lawyer to review the final contract, assist with the closing details or if problems such as a lien on the property are reflected on the title report. Also, if you are selling your home or property without a real estate agent, i.e. for sale by owner or FSBO, it can be very useful to hire an attorney to help with the legal paperwork.
When The Real Estate Sale Is Complex
While it may seem straightforward enough to complete the transaction alone, if there are extenuating circumstances or complexities involved in the property or its sale, you’ll definitely want to consider hiring a professional and knowledgable real estate attorney.
Contact a real estate attorney if your property has any of the following:
- Zoning or land use disputes
- Riparian rights – i.e. water access
- Oil or gas rights
- Subject to an easement
- Adverse possession claim
- Historical property classification
- Preserved property
- Beachfront property
Working with a real estate lawyer from the outset of transactions including the above will inevitably be more time and cost-effective than dealing with a major conflict or claim down the road. In addition, your lawyer can review the title and documentation and ensure that everything complies with state and federal laws.
If The Property Value is High, You Need a Real Estate Attorney
Hiring an attorney for a high-value residential sale can be extraordinarily important, particularly given the extent of your investment. High-end property may be subject to liens, judgments or encumbrances and a title search by an experienced real estate lawyer will help ensure that these issues do not pass to the buyer – costing you more time, money and frustration down the road.
The Local Real Estate Lawyer You Can Depend On
Vendetti Real Estate Legal Services is here for residents of Erie, PA and surrounding areas who are in the process of buying or selling property. Selling real estate can be a major headache and Mr. Vendetti is a highly experienced real estate attorney who can offer you the representation and guidance you need to help your transaction go as smoothly as possible.
Call us any time at 814-868-8541 x 242 and Vendetti Real Estate Legal Services will be there to answer your phone calls and emails with an unmatched accessibility. If you want to know what’s going on every step of the way, Attorney Vendetti will give you the answers you’re looking for.