Questions to Ask Real Estate Attorney
Essential questions to ask a real estate attorney before buying, selling, or dealing with property issues to protect your interests and avoid costly mistakes.
1What is your experience with cases or transactions like mine?
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What is your experience with cases or transactions like mine?
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Why this works
Ensures they have relevant expertise in your specific situation.
2What services do you provide, and what will you handle in this transaction?
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What services do you provide, and what will you handle in this transaction?
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Why this works
Clarifies scope of work and what you can expect from their involvement.
3How much do you charge, and how are your fees structured?
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How much do you charge, and how are your fees structured?
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Why this works
Provides transparency on costs—hourly, flat fee, or contingency.
4What potential legal issues or risks do you see with this property or transaction?
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What potential legal issues or risks do you see with this property or transaction?
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Why this works
Surfaces red flags early so you can address them or walk away.
5Can you review the purchase agreement or contract and explain any concerns?
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Can you review the purchase agreement or contract and explain any concerns?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand terms and aren't agreeing to unfavorable conditions.
6What should I look for in the title search and title insurance?
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What should I look for in the title search and title insurance?
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Why this works
Protects against liens, claims, or defects in property ownership.
7Are there any zoning, easement, or land use issues I should be aware of?
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Are there any zoning, easement, or land use issues I should be aware of?
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Why this works
Reveals restrictions on how you can use or develop the property.
8What disclosures is the seller required to make, and have they been provided?
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What disclosures is the seller required to make, and have they been provided?
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Why this works
Ensures transparency and compliance with state disclosure laws.
9What contingencies should I include in the contract to protect myself?
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What contingencies should I include in the contract to protect myself?
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Why this works
Identifies safety nets like inspection, financing, and appraisal contingencies.
10What happens if the other party breaches the contract?
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What happens if the other party breaches the contract?
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Why this works
Clarifies remedies and whether you have legal recourse.
11What are the tax implications of this transaction?
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What are the tax implications of this transaction?
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Why this works
Addresses capital gains, property taxes, or deductions you should know.
12What closing costs should I expect, and who pays for what?
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What closing costs should I expect, and who pays for what?
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Why this works
Prepares you financially and ensures costs are allocated fairly.
13How long will the closing process take, and what can delay it?
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How long will the closing process take, and what can delay it?
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Why this works
Sets realistic timelines and helps you plan.
14What documents will I need to provide or sign at closing?
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What documents will I need to provide or sign at closing?
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Why this works
Ensures you're prepared and understand what you're agreeing to.
15Are there any environmental issues or concerns with the property?
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Are there any environmental issues or concerns with the property?
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Why this works
Identifies contamination, flood zones, or hazards that affect value and safety.
16What are my rights and obligations if I find issues after closing?
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What are my rights and obligations if I find issues after closing?
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Why this works
Clarifies recourse if defects or problems surface post-purchase.
17Can you negotiate on my behalf with the other party or their attorney?
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Can you negotiate on my behalf with the other party or their attorney?
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Why this works
Ensures they'll advocate for your interests and handle tough conversations.
18What insurance do I need beyond homeowner's insurance—title, liability, etc.?
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What insurance do I need beyond homeowner's insurance—title, liability, etc.?
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Why this works
Protects you from unforeseen risks and financial exposure.
19What should I do if I discover the seller lied or withheld information?
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What should I do if I discover the seller lied or withheld information?
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Why this works
Clarifies legal options if fraud or misrepresentation occurs.
20Is there anything else I should know or ask that I haven't thought of?
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Is there anything else I should know or ask that I haven't thought of?
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Why this works
Invites the attorney to flag issues or advice you may have overlooked.
Working with a Real Estate Attorney
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.