Real estate attorneys: The basics

by Lori Madden 04/14/2024

A real estate attorney is a crucial professional to have on your side when it comes to buying or selling property. They specialize in property law and play a vital role in ensuring the legality and protection of all parties involved in a transaction. But what do they actually do? Here are some of the key responsibilities of a real estate attorney:

Document Drafting & Review

Real estate attorneys handle the drafting, review, and negotiation of legal documents such as purchase agreements, deeds, titles, and contracts. Their goal is to safeguard their clients' interests by identifying potential risks, ambiguities, or hidden clauses.

Title Search & Insurance

Real estate attorneys conduct thorough title searches to ensure the property's ownership history is clear of liens, encumbrances, or legal disputes. They may also help obtain title insurance for protection against future issues.

Due Diligence

Attorneys carefully examine all aspects of a property, including zoning regulations, land use restrictions, and environmental assessments. This process helps clients make informed decisions and avoid costly complications.

Negotiation & Dispute Resolution

Real estate attorneys represent their clients during negotiations, aiming to secure favorable terms and protect their interests. In the event of a dispute, they provide guidance, mediate conflicts, or handle litigation if necessary.

Closing Procedures

Attorneys ensure that all legal requirements are met during the closing stage of a transaction. They coordinate with other professionals involved, oversee the transfer of funds and property rights, and ensure proper execution and recording of documentation.

Engaging a real estate attorney is a wise decision when navigating property transactions. Their expertise helps mitigate risks, provide legal guidance, and protect your interests throughout the process. Whether it's document preparation, dispute resolution, or overseeing closing procedures, a real estate attorney serves as an invaluable asset, offering peace of mind and facilitating smooth transactions in the real estate industry.

Real Estate

Real Estate Attorney

About the Author

Lori Madden

As a Florida native growing up in Sarasota, I have seen my hometown grow from a sleepy coastal town to a highly sought-after destination along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. After working in Chicago for 5 years, I returned to Sarasota and saw it through a new lens and really began to appreciate what makes Sarasota so desirable, including temperatures that allow for year round outdoor activities including tennis (a personal favorite), golf, boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, or just relaxing and/or shelling on our pristine sandy shores, including Dr. Beach’s #1 beach in the United States for 2017, Siesta Key! Sarasota’s cultural amenities are many and diverse, appealing to a wide range of arts lovers. Downtown Sarasota has become a destination in itself, drawing many new developments for those who want to be within walking distance of Main Street's offerings and the picturesque bayfront and marina. Foodies will find an eclectic mix of locally owned and operated restaurants offering something for everyone, and there are now Farmers Markets every day of the week in various locations throughout Sarasota, but the Saturday morning Farmers Market in downtown Sarasota draws the biggest crowds. Since 1988, my passion has been selling real estate, representing both buyers and sellers. I have been recognized by my clients and customers for an uncompromising work ethic and dedication to helping them achieve their real estate goals. Relying on my experience as a real estate paralegal and being highly organized, I am able to help make the transition between contract and closing a smooth one for my clients. With an eye for interior and landscape design, I've been known to pitch in and help Sellers minimize and/or reorganize their belongings in order to stage their home to maximize its sale potential. I specialize in out of state buyers looking for their piece of paradise along the Gulf Coast and make it a priority to keep them up to date on our quickly changing local real estate market. I welcome the opportunity to share with you all Sarasota and her surrounding islands have to offer!