Do You Need a Real Estate lawyer?
A Real Estate Law lawyer Lehigh Valley PA can help with everything from drawing up the initial documents to representing you in litigation regarding your property after you finalize the purchase.
A real estate lawyer is a licensed lawyer who specializes in real estate transactions and disputes. A Real Estate Law lawyer Lehigh Valley PA will prepare or review documents leading up to closing day for a real estate deal on behalf of the buyer or seller.
Here’s what you need to know about the work of a Real Estate Law lawyer in Lehigh Valley PA and when you may need one in your corner.
How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?
You can expect a lawyer to have an established hourly rate, which varies by the experience, skill set and location of the lawyer. The common rate for a lawyer runs between $150 and $300 per hour, according to professional services network Thumbtack, though in major cities and at elite law firms, the rate can climb higher.
While hourly rates are the industry standard for lawyers, many real estate lawyers set flat rates for specific services that are common in real estate transactions.
If you’re using a real estate lawyer because you’re buying a home, the total cost can be as much as a few thousand dollars.
When Do You Need a Real Estate lawyer?
You may need a real estate lawyer to draw up documents, conduct due diligence on a property, attend a real estate closing or represent you in litigation regarding your property. Depending on where you live, a lawyer’s presence at closing may be required.
There are many states that don’t require lawyers to represent the buyer and seller in a transaction. In these cases a closing agent, who is often employed by the title insurance company, may oversee the signing of documents and finalizing the transaction.
After a deal has closed, a real estate lawyer will play a major role if, say, issues arise that lead you to seek legal action against the seller for failing to disclose known defects about the property, or if problems with easements come up down the line or any threats to your right to title of the property become known.
In cases where you’re not using a lender or working with a title company – you’re transferring ownership to a relative, for example – you’re likely using a quitclaim deed, which you won’t see used by a closer from a title company.
Other situations may arise that involve real estate but won’t necessarily require a real estate lawyer, like defending yourself against foreclosure or trying to deal with a landlord-tenant issue. Lawyers will separately focus on these categories without always additionally specializing in real estate, so seek out a professional who can best represent you based on the case you’re facing.
Legal Assistance from our Real Estate Law lawyer Lehigh Valley PA
We have the track record and reputation that you can rely on, especially when it comes to real estate law. Being a client of Hoegen & Associates, P.C. means that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that we are on your side and will always assist you with the highest quality representation and trustworthiness. Your best interests are our best interests.
We handle every case promptly while focusing on securing for you the best possible outcomes. Schedule your free initial consultation with Hoegen & Associates, P.C. today.
