Choosing The Right Attorney

Buying a home is a significant financial decision, having a lawyer whose practice focuses in real estate law just makes sense. Your attorney is a key member of your real estate team; these tips will help choose the right attorney.

• One of the best ways is to talk to friends and family who have recently purchased a home. Their personal recommendation from people whose opinion you respect is a great place to start.

• Ask your real estate agent to recommend a few attorneys.

• Go online and research the recommended names. Type their name into a search engine and visit some results. Also visit the law firm’s website and view the attorney’s bio page that displays their specialties, credentials and years of experience.

• Experience matters. You should have real estate focused attorney! Lawyers who practice outside of real estate likely have limited contact with real estate transactions. The laws, procedures, regulations and required documents of real estate are continuously updated and changed. It’s important to retain an attorney who works within the area of real estate law, who understands those changes and is able to incorporate the updated procedures in your deal.

• There is no substitute for local knowledge so choose legal representation with a physical office in your city or town.

• Contact your top attorney choices and ask them what their fees will be and how you will be charged. Also ask if they can provide you with references.