Why hire a real estate attorney for a closing if the parties are represented by real estate agents and can use a title company instead?
The real questions ought to be: Why wouldn’t I hire an attorney? Buying or selling a home is often the biggest transaction in a person’s life, with much money involved and risks incurred. While it is true that a real estate agent often prepares a real estate contract and a title company can act as closing agent, the attorney is the only party that can advocate a position and give its client legal advice. Buying and selling real estate is an important transaction and to do so without legal representation can be dangerous. We always recommend hiring an attorney before signing a real estate contract (see above). Attorneys are trained, have the experience to know what issues can arise during a real estate transaction and can protect a Buyer or Seller by helping to negotiate the contract. Attorneys may also be able to advise their clients on issues ranging from title, zoning, financing, inspections, taxes, and other contract contingencies that title companies cannot.
