Why You Need a Real Estate Lawyer More Than You Think
There are times when a real estate attorney is extremely helpful in managing the ownership of your property. Although many real estate transactions are handled through listing agents, there are times when the knowledge base of these representatives is simply not adequate. Real estate agents typically attend training for less than a year, while attorneys must attend law school for four years after college. The extensive training of an attorney gives them the ability to advise clients on a variety of issues.
Contracts are complicated documents, to say the least. The language in a real estate contract should be brushed over with a fine-toothed comb. Even if a person reads every word carefully, some of the language can be quite confusing. For one thing, these documents are written in legal language, which is not something the average citizen has experience with. Furthermore, property sales are not only complex financial maneuvers, they often involve emotional upheavals as well. When people buy or sell their houses, it can touch a chord in their hearts. It’s easy to miss something in a heavy legal document when you’re buying your dream home or selling a beloved home. A real estate attorney is a no-nonsense person who can help clients navigate the troubled waters of acquiring or releasing a “home sweet home.”
Property boundary disputes are another area where having an experienced real estate attorney on your team is a major advantage. Imagine you buy a cabin in the woods. With no fences or close neighbors, you may be under the impression that you are the king or queen of the forest – that is, until a neighbor shows up claiming that they have inherited the land right behind your house. When conflicting claims arise regarding the border lines, it is necessary to conduct a survey of the land, verify records, and enlist an experienced speed dial attorney.
Tenants and landlords also need guidance in the vast sea of property negotiations. Both landlord and tenant have certain rights, and these rights vary from state to state. For example, in some states, the landlord must give 48 hours’ notice before entering the property, or 5 days in advance if eviction seems imminent due to non-payment of rent. A tenant has the right to privacy in their rental space, provided certain stipulations are met. Sometimes misunderstandings occur and it takes a trained legal mind to solve everything effectively. When it comes to a person’s home, whether the residence is owned, rented or rented, the contractual language must be followed to the letter of the law.
When a real estate attorney goes to school, he learns about property leases, purchases, and sales. Lessons are also given on zoning, leases, eminent domain, and mortgages. In addition to academic study in the classroom, attorneys gain valuable experience working in law offices and spending time in court. When the time comes in the world of property, wouldn’t you rather seek the guidance of a professional who has trained for years rather than none at all?
