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WHY DO YOU NEED AN ATTORNEY FOR THE
PURCHASE OR SALE OF REAL PROPERTY?
In order to purchase or sell real property you
must enter into a written contract.
A lawyer is needed to review and approve the
contract. He will make sure the parties to the contract are the ones
buying or selling the property. He also make sure the property being
sold is adequately identified and that the use of the property is
specified in the contract, such as single family residential.
An important element for the purchaser is the
mortgage contingency paragraph. A lawyer can explain what is needed
to meet the contingency within the timeframe set out in the
contract.
If representing the purchaser he should
recommend an owner’s policy of Title Insurance.
The lender’s attorneys represent the bank and
not the purchaser or seller. Most often a mortgage commitment will
require Title Insurance in the amount of the loan with the lender as
the insured. This does not insure the purchaser’s interest in the
property.
If representing the seller the lawyer will
review title to make sure it is marketable and/or insurable. This
protects the seller who is warranting title to the property.
Structural, Pest and Radon Inspections should
be made. If there is a problem with any of these it is important to
be represented by an attorney who can advocate on your behalf so as
to resolve any issues.
If you are selling property, it is important to
have an attorney who will prepare the deed and other necessary
documents in order to transfer title to the purchaser. Conversely,
if you are purchasing property, your attorney will review the
closing documents and title to ensure you are being transferred good
title free of any liens or encumbrances.
At closing the attorney will provide a closing
statement which will include the
costs
and credits adjusted as of the date of closing for such items as
taxes, water, sewer, fuel etc.
That’s why you should be represented by an
attorney whether you are purchasing or selling real property.
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