Real Estate and Landlord Law

Our real estate practice is separated into five areas: Commercial Real Estate Transactions, Residential Real Estate Transactions, Deed preparation for Real Estate Professionals and Real Estate Litigation and Leases.  Each area is individually discussed below. The general services we provide are as follows:

• Agreements and Contracts (standard to custom drafted) 
• Closings Deed Preparation - for Sellers, real estate companies or professionals
  
• Disputes (representing: Buyer or Seller, Builder or Contractor, Plaintiff or Defense) 
• Document Preparation & Review 
• Escrow Accounts 
• Litigation 
• Mechanics Liens 
• Negotiations 
• Realty transfer tax matters 
• Real estate tax issues
• Settlements 
• Title Insurance 
• Title Search  

We understand the importance and value of real estate.  To some, real estate is about their heritage and ancestry or gaining equity and making money, to others it is about security and having a piece of the American dream or acquiring land for the sake of owning land.  Whatever your reason for buying or selling real estate we can assist you by ensuring the transaction is legal, as painless as those involved allow, and properly conducted. 

Can you close on a home or commercial property without an attorney?  The answer is yes. 

But that is not the question you should ask yourself.  The question is: Should you close on real estate without an attorney?  The answer to that is a resounding NO. 

Why? Despite all the real estate agents out there, most are not attorneys and simply do not understand the legal ramifications of the entire transaction. Most individuals do not understand the interplay between various documents, statements and players, nor do they understand the liability ramifications if a closing takes place that does not have the appropriate disclosures, agreements and contingencies in place. An attorney has a legal and ethical duty to represent only your interests (unless you waive it). At our office we understand the financial, legal, and contractual issues in a real estate transaction and we can assist you by providing legal advice and information to help assure that you are not taken advantage of.

If you have a question about any kind of real estate transaction or dispute we recommend you see an attorney as soon as possible to avoid problems before they begin. In saying that, never sign a real estate contract or agreement of any kind without an attorney reviewing it. The adages of "buyer beware" and "you get what you pay for" holds particularly true when dealing with real estate.

REAL ESTATE PRACTICE AREAS

Commercial Real Estate Transactions

Our commercial real estate practice focuses on the needs of small to medium size businesses that are expanding or selling their real estate.  We can assist with any part of the purchasing or selling process.  We look at the transaction in its entirety, including if it relates to the purchase or sale of the entire business.  We have experience with the purchasing and sale of gas stations, retail locations, and service industry and vendor space.  Land development and industrial issues are on a case by case basis.  We also work with companies and individuals who wish to "flip" properties or desire to invest in real estate for rental income. Please contact our office to make an appointment to discuss your business needs.

Residential Real Estate Transactions

The most important investment and purchase in an individual's life is their home.  Because it is so important, an attorney should ensure the transaction is handled correctly and done to protect you. A smooth closing is always preferred, however, your interests are paramount and should be protected even if it may inconvenience the other party or ruffle some feathers.  We have helped many clients deal with constructing or purchasing their dream or starter home.  We work closely with our clients from start to finish (and anywhere in between).  We can represent your interests solely or work with your realtor, lender, or any other professional you desire.  Whether you are selling or buying we can handle your legal matters.  

Real Estate Litigation

Most attorneys avoid real estate litigation as it tends to be complex or the case involves multiple parties.  We typically attempt to resolve disputes between all parties, as we find miscommunication or misunderstanding has often taken place between everyone.  If opposing parties are unwilling to come to a resolution we bring suit to enforce our client's rights.  We have represented clients against sellers, buyers, builders, general contractors, sub-contractors, lenders and municipalities.  We also defend builders, contractors and sub-contractors when parties bring illegitimate claims and represent them against individuals and companies that refuse to pay legitimate bills.  In addition, our office handles matters involving mechanics liens, including filing and prosecution.

Leases

Many individuals and businesses enter into Leases.  These documents can range from one page residential leases to more than fifty page commercial leases. No matter the lease our Firm can review the document for legal hazards and exposure that could be detrimental to the client.  We will suggest changes and can negotiate the terms of the lease if the client desires.  In addition, we draft leases for landlords and for owners of commercial property.  The most important thing to remember is not to sign anything that you have not read or do not understand.

Deed Preparation

We prepare deeds for transferring real estate.  Whether you are a seller, a real estate company or abstracting company our Firm can provide all your deed preparation needs.

Our list of services on this website is comprehensive but it is not all inclusive, so call or email us if you have another real estate matter, so we can discuss how we can assist you.