How to Choose a Real Estate Attorney
Choosing a real estate attorney may seem complicated to the point you wonder if it’s even worth pursuing legal representation. Even though it is not legally required in many states to hire a real estate attorney, it is often worth it to avoid complications later on in the buying or selling process. The Scranton real estate attorneys of Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam are here to help you decide how to choose a real estate attorney.
Step 1: Consider The Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you are not legally obligated to hire a real estate attorney when buying or selling real estate. However, in many cases, there are benefits to doing so. Benefits of hiring a real estate attorney include:
- They can review closing documents
- Proving representation at meetings where each parties needs are considered
- Answering questions during the entire process
- Guiding you through negotiation
If after considering the benefits of hiring a real estate attorney you decide you would like to seek representation, there are a few things you need to be mindful of.
Step 2: Conduct Research
Word of mouth is always a great place to start when choosing an attorney, but you also need to conduct your own research. The Pennsylvania Bar Association has a legal directory you can utilize to begin your search.
From there you should review attorney websites, social media channels and check out their reviews and testimonials. If reviews from previous clients lead you to believe the firm won’t be helpful to you, chances are you are probably going to want to pursue representation elsewhere.
Step 3: Set Up Consultations
If you already have an attorney you enjoy working with, you may not need a consultation. But if this is your first time working with a particular firm, take advantage of their free consultations to determine if you want to move forward with a working relationship.
During the consultation, ask questions about their background, legal fees, and who you will be working with. If this is an attorney you hope to utilize in the future, you may not want to be passed around the firm–if a one-on-one partnership is what you need, be mindful of that during the first meeting.
Step 4: Choose a Real Estate Attorney
Upon meeting with a few potential lawyers, it is time to choose a real estate attorney. At this point, you should let the other attorneys know you’ve decided to go with another firm and formally hire the real estate attorney you wish to retain representation from.
Once you’ve hired the attorney, be sure to schedule a meeting to go over all documentation they need and to let them know of the buying or selling process point you are in to ensure they are familiar with your case.
It will be imperative that you cooperate with your attorney so they can represent you in the most effective way possible.
Step 5: Close the Deal with Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam
Still not sure how to choose a real estate attorney? It’s time to call Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam. Our team of experienced real estate attorneys will guide you through:
- Sales and Acquisitions
- Development
- Leasing Agreements
- Financing
- Title Insurance
- Commercial Lease Disputes
If you are ready to choose a real estate attorney and live in Northeastern Pennsylvania, now is the time to get a Scranton real estate lawyer on your side. Real estate transactions are complicated but Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam has extensive knowledge in Pennsylvania’s real estate laws and will make sure you receive a fair deal. Contact Mazzoni Valvano Szewczyk & Karam for a free consultation today.